Yevgeniy Morozov: “We сame into this world to make it better”

Today, it is impossible to imagine Dubai’s cultural life without the major projects behind M Premiere. Musical seasons at Dubai Opera, tours by leading international theatres, large-scale concerts, classical productions, and cultural collaborations all come together to create a unique environment that unites Russian-speaking audiences, the international community, and art lovers from around the world.

On the eve of the New Year, we met with concert organizer, producer, and CEO of M Premiere, Yevgeny Morozov, who has been shaping the musical rhythm of the emirate for more than two decades. Our conversation was honest, deep, and very personal—about the transformation of the industry, courage, faith, professional risk, and culture, which today feels more important than ever.

How would you describe the outgoing year 2025, perhaps in one feeling or one word?

It’s impossible to capture it in just one word. The year was intense and, in many ways, full of contrasts. There were challenging projects and demanding days, but also moments when we were quietly laying the foundation for the future. And alongside all of that, there were truly extraordinary experiences—bright, inspiring musical moments that reminded us why we do what we do.

What did it teach you about people, about your profession, about yourself?

This year became a time of important decisions that are already influencing the company’s strategy and our future plans. Some things we reconsidered and removed from the schedule, while others we added. There was a lot of analysis and reflection about where to move next and which formats to choose. This year of transformation—both internal and professional—taught me to pay closer attention to details, to anticipate risks, and to value every successful outcome.

One of the key events of the season is a five-hour stage production based on Leo Tolstoy’s novel War and Peace, which will be performed at Dubai Opera in January.

The exact duration time is four hours and forty-five minutes, with two extended intermissions. This is an extremely complex project, both in terms of production and execution. But it’s not just about the scale or duration. It’s about profound content, serious theatrical challenges, and a large ensemble cast.

The Vakhtangov Theatre troupe—the very best of it—is coming to Dubai. For the first time in UAE history, a full-scale Russian-language production of this level will be performed, and for two consecutive nights.

It’s important to understand that Tolstoy is not entertainment content. It is classical literature of global significance, included in many educational curricula. For us, together with Dubai Opera, this is not just a theatrical project but also a cultural and educational one, carrying an important humanitarian mission.

And this story feels especially relevant today. “War and Peace” resonates with modern reality.

Yes, unfortunately, the theme of war has accompanied humanity throughout its entire history. Today it once again sounds painfully acute. People in different countries are forced to live before war, during war, and after war. This production makes us reflect on the true cost of peace on our planet.

How do you think the music and cultural industries have changed in recent years?

Much of the activity has moved online, to social media and streaming platforms. For offline events, this became a serious challenge. But the last two years have shown a revival of interest in live concerts. People need emotions that simply cannot be experienced through a screen.

For example, in Abu Dhabi, Coldplay sold out four stadium shows in a row—unprecedented for the region. In Russia, artists like Ruki Vverkh!, Nadezhda Kadyisheva, Dima Bilan, Leonid Agutin, and Basta are filling huge stadiums. Demand for classical concerts is also growing. People are drawn to genuine art.

But you are naming artists who have been famous for a long time. Why is nostalgia so strong?

Because 15–20 years ago, there were no wars and no such deep financial divide between different social groups. But personally, I am much more interested today in international, high-art events, concerts, and projects. That’s why this year we launched the collaboration with Dubai Opera: we opened the cultural season with the Hungarian State Opera and Ballet Theatre from Budapest and brought productions such as Swan Lake, La Bohème, and others.

In November, the Dubai Opera Ball took place, and Vladimir Spivakov’s concerts were a great success. In 2026, we are planning a concert by Denis Matsuev and a performance by pianist Yuja Wang. We are consciously focusing on classical and high-art projects.

What are your plans for the New Year?

For the first time in 25 years, my team and I are not planning anything. The New Year will be a day off for M Premiere. For me personally, this will be my first real break since 1996. And perhaps it is precisely this pause that allows to look more honestly at what is usually hidden behind everyday work routines.

What do you hide from people: fears, doubts, fatigue?

Our work is inherently very public, but of course there are doubts. Without them, growth is impossible. There were projects we entered with confidence, yet the results turned out more modest than expected. Such experiences only reinforce the need to calculate details more carefully. Times change, audiences change, sales dynamics are different every year, and we constantly have to look for new tools.

I believe that an organizer and promoter must have courage and a certain spirit of adventure because you never know the outcome for sure. But even courage sometimes needs support, an inner source of strength. What helps you move forward, especially in these anxious times?

Faith. Faith in God, in what we do, and in the belief that ahead there will be more meaningful and interesting projects. For me, it is important to be useful to people, to take care of my family and employees, and to love what I do. Love for music and curiosity about new projects—that is the energy that drives us.

What would you wish for the readers of Aviamost in 2026?

I would wish everyone to read more real books – the kind that smell of paper, with texts that make you think. Not just to watch or listen, but to truly read. May there be a place in everyone’s life for books and genuine literature, so that we can preserve our humanity.

Thank you for the engaging conversation, and we wish you inspiration and successful projects in 2026!