Emilie Valantin, stage director from France, has become a holder of the French National Order of the Legion of Honor (Lgion d'honneur).

Staff of Ekaterinburg Puppet Theatre congratulates her on receiving this high award. On March 3, the Theatre welcomes to the world opening night of Simpleton Gribouille and Sir Bumblebee.

Emilie Valantin is the author of this stage version, and the stage director as well. The national project Russia - France 2010 is being carried out with the help of Russia's Ministry of Culture.

The opening night of Simpleton Gribouille and Sir Bumblebee after George Sand's tale is supposed to give start to official events in Ural region within the framework of the project Russia - France

In order to finish all necessary preparations for the show, Emilie Valantin is going to visit Ekaterinburg on February 12.

Local spectators are expected to see an excellent piece of contemporary dramatic art.

Among the invited guests are famous theatre critics and experts for Russian theatre award "Golden Mask", representatives from the Ministry for Culture and local theatre community, Nikola Shibaeff - commissioner for Russia-France project and representatives from the French Consulate in Ekaterinburg.

The rehearsals are coming to the end, while other cities and festivals are already waiting to welcome the performance.

The world opening night of Simpleton Gribouille and Sir Bumblebee takes place at Ekaterinburg Puppet theatre on March 3-7, 2010.