In 2026, Estonia will celebrate the 80th birthday of the influential theatre educator, director, and artistic leader, Professor Kalju Komissarov. As part of the celebrations, the University of Tartu Viljandi Culture Academy will host the Kalju Komissarov Scholarship Days from March 6 to 9, marking the eighth edition of this event. This initiative aims to honor Komissarov’s legacy in the Estonian theatre scene.

At the center of the scholarship days is a conference titled 'Art During a Crisis' scheduled for March 6-7 at Ugala Theatre. This conference continues discussions that began in 2021 regarding the role and opportunities of performing arts in a rapidly changing world. It will bring together artists and cultural creators to honestly address both creative and societal challenges that contemporary art faces today, fostering a platform for dialogue and reflection.

In addition to the conference, various performances and visual theatre installations will be presented, all relating to the legacy of Kalju Komissarov through a modern lens. The audience will also have the opportunity to see installations created by third-year students from the performing arts curriculum, inspired by Komissarov’s artistic contributions, highlighting the enduring relevance of his work and its impact on new generations of artists.