The St. Petersburg State Theater of Musical Comedy is set to perform a heartfelt program titled "Songs of Memory" in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on April 26 and 27, 2025. This event commemorates the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, a significant milestone in the history of both Russia and Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan, which became a second home for many families evacuated from front-line regions during the war, holds a cherished memory of the unity among peoples who stood against fascism. This shared history has inspired the theater's choice of repertoire, as explained by the theater's press service. The program, "Songs of Memory," features powerful pieces by Soviet composers, including classics such as "Sacred War," "Cranes," "Blue Shawl," "Katyusha," "Random Waltz," and "Road to Berlin."
The concert will showcase a range of talented performers, including the People's Artist of Russia, Vladimir Yakovlev, along with Honored Artists of Russia Elena Zabrodina and Anton Oleinikov. Additionally, the event will highlight the skills of international competition laureates, including Elizaveta Belousova, Anastasia Loshakova, Natalia Savchenko, Roman Bokuev, Alexandra Lenogova, Fedor Osipov, and Oleg Romashin. The performances promise to be a moving tribute to the resilience and sacrifice of those who lived through the war.
In a parallel tribute to veterans, military personnel from unit 55524 visited Nikolai Semenovich Kurilenko on his 98th birthday, honoring his contributions as a participant in the Great Patriotic War. Born in the Bryansk region, Kurilenko was drafted into the Soviet Army at the tender age of 17 in 1944. He served in the anti-aircraft artillery of air defense in the Baltics, and as the war neared its end, his unit was deployed to Poland, where they protected a railway bridge on the Vistula River, witnessing the victory firsthand.
After the war, Kurilenko continued to serve until 1951 and later moved to Kazakhstan in 1958 with his wife Maria Fedorovna to help build what was then known as Kazakhstan Magnitka, now the city of Temirtau. His military service earned him several accolades, including the Order of the Patriotic War I degree and medals for courage and victory over Germany.
Currently, Kurilenko stands as the only surviving veteran of the Great Patriotic War in Temirtau. He has raised five children, and his family has expanded to include 10 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. His legacy is one of resilience and dedication, embodying the spirit of those who fought for their country.
As the St. Petersburg State Theater of Musical Comedy prepares for its performances, the significance of these events resonates deeply within the community. Both the concert and Kurilenko's birthday celebration serve as poignant reminders of the sacrifices made during the war and the enduring bonds forged in the face of adversity. The theater's program aims to evoke a sense of remembrance and gratitude, while the visit to Kurilenko highlights the importance of honoring those who have served.
These events not only commemorate a historical milestone but also foster a sense of unity and reflection among generations. The performances in Tashkent will bring together audiences to celebrate the shared memory of resilience and courage, while Kurilenko's story serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of the war and its impact on families and communities.
As the dates approach, anticipation builds for the performances that will undoubtedly touch the hearts of many, reminding them of the sacrifices made by their forebears. The St. Petersburg State Theater of Musical Comedy's "Songs of Memory" promises to be a powerful tribute, resonating with themes of love, loss, and the indomitable spirit of those who faced the horrors of war.
