About Us

(Moscow, Russia — 21 May 2008)
On Tuesday May 20, 2008 an official partnership agreement between Telenor and the State Academic Bolshoi Theatre of Russia was signed in Moscow.

Starting September 1, 2008 Telenor becomes “the Official Sponsor of the Bolshoi”.

Telenor is supporting cultural projects all over the world as art is one of the most significant forms of communication. Telenor is a long-standing partner of the Norwegian National Theatre. In 1995 Telenor established a special culture prize “Boundless Communication” awarded to individuals or institutions that make an outstanding contribution to cultural life of Norway.

The Bolshoi Theatre is a major symbol of Russian culture. The classic building has preserved its uniqueness and wonderful interior design since 1856 and is undergoing a major renovation and technical modernisation that will restore its splendour. The Bolshoi Theatre is one of the world’s most renowned cultural institutions and has presented its audience with some of the most impressive performances ever seen. The creative process builds on innovation and a constant search for fresh ideas and new talents, but at the same time stays true to its values.

“Telenor is proud to have this outstanding opportunity to contribute to the development of Russian historic and cultural heritage”, says Kjell Morten Johnsen, Head of Telenor Russia, adding that “during my conversations with Director Anatoly Iksanov, it once again struck me how similar many of the leadership challenges between seemingly different activities like the Bolshoi and a global leader in telecoms really are.”

Telenor is a telecommunications company with over 145 million mobile phone users around the world. Originated in Norway in 1855, Telenor is now a truly global player with a unique geographical coverage. Telenor sees its operations in Russia and Ukraine as very important to the company. Since 1992 Telenor has invested around $ 1.2 billion in telecommunications assets in Russia, becoming the largest foreign owner in Russian telecoms. Telenor’s value of assets in Russia is now more than 10 billion dollars. Telenor owns 33.8% of Russia’s second-largest mobile phone operator VimpelCom, Beeline brand.
Visit www.telenor.com/russia