Nadezhda Babkina, the beloved Russian folk singer, marked her impressive 75th birthday on stage at her own theater, the "Russian Song," in an event that brought together an array of stars and heartfelt tributes. The evening was a vibrant celebration of her contributions to Russian culture, filled with music, laughter, and nostalgia.
Surrounded by friends and fellow artists, Babkina received warm wishes and lavish bouquets from prominent figures in the performing arts. Notable attendees included popular artists such as SHAMAN, Nikolai Baskov, Taisia Povaliy, Alexander Buinov, Klara Novikova, Evgeny Gor, Maria Shukshina, and many others. Each brought their unique flair to the celebration, creating a festive atmosphere that encapsulated Babkina's spirit.
The jubilee performance was split into two acts. The first act was a concert program, where Babkina was celebrated by hosts Olga Buzova and Viktor Vasiliev. They introduced various performances that underscored the depth of Babkina's influence on Russian music. The not-to-be-missed moment of the evening came when Buzova and Babkina performed a duet of the song "Made in Russia," captivating the audience and bringing the crowd to their feet in a wave of applause. Buzova, expressing her admiration, stated, "I should sleep with this (laughs). I still can't believe this is happening to me. Nadezhda Georgievna, you are a great Legend, the pride of our country. Thank you for the cultural heritage you create for our country."
The second act featured theatrical presentations inspired by iconic plays such as "Very Merry Guys," "Gorky," and "Pokrovsky Gates." This part was hosted by Anastasia Makeeva and Vyacheslav Manucharov, showcasing skits that included scenes resonating with classic Russian humor and dramatic flair. Each performance paid homage to Babkina's illustrious career, tying in her influence on both music and theatre.
Evgeny Gor, Babkina’s partner, took to the stage during the celebrations, announcing his lasting love for her. He declared, "For me, Nadezhda Georgievna is a real Tsarina with incredible charisma and talent. I love her immensely. We have known each other for over 25 years." His heartfelt message highlighted the strong bond that has endured through the test of time.
As the evening progressed, Babkina was showered with praises from fellow artists. Taisia Povaliy paid a visit backstage, bringing a beautiful bouquet and shared, "She is such a strong woman, a Russian beauty. I am always in awe of Nadezhda Georgievna." The camaraderie among artists was palpable, which only served to further elevate the celebratory spirit of the night.
The concert culminated in an emotional performance by Babkina herself, who sang the composition "Exorcise." The entire audience rose to their feet, moved by the poignant moment that captured the essence of her impact on Russian culture and the love she has garnered over the years. It was truly a testament to her legacy, where she remains a beloved figure in the arts.
Though the night was focused on celebrating Babkina, she also took a moment to reflect on the future. She announced her intention to attend Olga Buzova's upcoming anniversary and hinted at performing together again, stating, "Nadezhda will come to my anniversary, and we will also sing something together." This promise not only underscores her relentless passion for performance but also her desire to foster connections within the artistic community.
As the festivities drew to a close, it was not just a celebration of Babkina’s age but a recognition of the cultural tapestry she has woven through her long career. The enthusiastic crowd echoed the sentiments of Nikolai Baskov, who remarked, "I love her immensely. We have known each other for over 25 years and I call her Nadya." His words encapsulated the universal respect and admiration that surrounds Babkina.
In closing, the 75-year-old performer is not just a fixture in Russian entertainment; she is a beacon of cultural pride, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the Russian people through her work. This celebration wasn’t merely a milestone; it was a reminder of the joy she has provided throughout her extraordinary life and career. As the curtain fell on this memorable night, it was clear that Nadezhda Babkina’s legacy will continue to shine brightly.
