OREANDA-NEWS  Russian President Vladimir Putin has updated the composition of the Presidential Council for Culture and Art, including director Nikita Mikhalkov and actor Konstantin Khabensky, it follows from the decree of the head of state.

According to the text of the decree, film director Karen Shakhnazarov retained the position of deputy chairman of the council, while Assistant to the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Medinsky remained secretary of the council.

The council has been replenished with new members. It includes singer Ildar Abdrazakov, actor, artistic director of the Chekhov Moscow Art Theater Konstantin Khabensky, director Nikita Mikhalkov, Director General of Channel One Konstantin Ernst, writer Zakhar Prilepin.

A number of former members of the council retained their positions, including People's Artist of the Russian Federation Nikolai Tsiskaridze, singer Polina Gagarina.