The panel “Cities, Culture & Power” will take place on March 3 at Palatul Braunstein, as part of Classix in Focus, and proposes a conversation about the relationship between culture, public administration, and the identity of cities. The discussion starts from the role that cultural strategies can play in defining the direction of a community and shaping a coherent urban vision.

In the spirit of the Art & Mind theme of Classix Festival 2026, the panel brings to the forefront how culture shapes not only the physical space of a city, but also the collective mindset. We will discuss the collaboration between the public and cultural sectors, the integration of culture into a long-term development strategy, and its potential to become a real instrument of urban transformation.

Beyond one-off events, the discussion emphasizes continuity, coherence, and strategic commitment. About how investment in culture can generate identity, cohesion, and international relevance. About cities that do not merely consume culture, but use it as a foundation for development and positioning.

Panel guests:
• Anca Lupeș (RO) – Cultural Manager / Founder, Mastering the Music Business, MMB
• Andrei Popov (RO) – Executive Director, Austrian Cultural Forum Bucharest
• Bogdan Trîmbaciu (RO) – Director, Project Management Unit – Ministry of Culture of Romania
• Gabriella Bergman (DK) – Manager, Esbjerg Ensemble, Denmark

Moderator:
Mihai Bulai (RO) – Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Geography and Geology – “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iași, Founder, Iași Travel

Admission to the event is free, and the discussion will be held in English.

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The Classix in Focus series represents the festival’s space for interdisciplinary dialogue and networking, connecting artists, professionals from the cultural industries, and figures from the academic and creative environment. The program highlights topics relevant to the contemporary artistic scene and creates real contexts for collaboration between generations, disciplines, and cultures.

With a dynamic and accessible format, the series has so far included 26 panels, lectures, exhibitions, openings, film screenings, book launches, and various cultural interventions, consolidating its status as an essential component of the Classix DNA.

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By attending the screenings, participants consent to the use of photographic images and audio and video recordings for the purpose of promoting the festival’s activities.