International Student Ball

The Association of International Students and the International Ball Association, with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, hosted the First International Student Ball.
The event served as a vibrant culmination of the visit by participants of the «Best International Student of Russia» award and brought together representatives from 56 countries, demonstrating the power of cultural dialogue and mutual respect.
The opening of the ball was truly impressive: guests heard welcoming remarks from Olga Viktorovna Petrova, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, witnessed a solemn procession of debutants from more than 35 countries, and enjoyed a Russian dance from the ballet «Swan Lake».

The ceremony also featured:

a performance of the National Anthem of Russia by the international choir of RUDN University, accompanied by the orchestra of the International Ball Association (IBA);

recitations of poems by Pushkin and Lermontov;

an aria from the opera «Prince Igor»;

the famous romance «Ochi Chyornye» («Dark Eyes»).

The opening ceremony concluded with a dance by 54 debutants to «Russian Waltz» by D. Shostakovich.
Under the guidance of dance masters Yulia and Mikhail Gribov, the ball’s dance programme unfolded: first, guests immersed themselves in the atmosphere of classical dances — the Viennese waltz, tango, quadrille, and polka‑galop — followed by the vibrant rhythms of Latin American and jazz styles: swing, cha‑cha‑cha, merengue, and salsa.
The ball served as a genuine platform for cultural exchange: participants presented dances and traditions of their respective peoples, fostering a living dialogue of cultures.
The event concluded with a communal dance symbolising friendship and unity among nations.
This occasion clearly demonstrated that the language of dance has the power to unite people, transcend borders, and build cultural bridges between nations.
The event underscored the significance of intercultural interaction and showcased the richness of Russian cultural traditions within an international context.