Putin called the theater workers "colleagues" after presenting the gift.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a speech at the congress of the Russian Theater Society on October 22, joked that he could now address representatives of the theater community as colleagues. The reason was the presentation of the organization's number one badge of honor to him.

"At the beginning of my speech, I said, 'dear colleagues and friends.' But I crossed out "colleagues" — I think: They'll misunderstand you yet. But now, after this award, I want to say: have a good evening, dear colleagues!" the head of state wished.

The President's words provoked laughter and prolonged applause from those present in the hall.

During the congress, Putin was awarded the number one badge of the Russian Theater Society. The award is modeled on the historical badge of the Russian Artists Mutual Aid Society, founded in 1876.

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Earlier in the day, the Russian leader noted that theater in Russia is alive and sets the momentum for other forms of art. According to the president, the theater in Russia has been constantly developing, combining literature, music, painting and dance.

He called the theater one of the leading public institutions fulfilling an important moral mission. In addition, Putin stated about the significant influence of the theater on shaping the worldview of people, especially young people.