Alexander Levenbuk, the founder and longtime artistic director of the Moscow Jewish Theater Shalom, has passed away. The 91-year-old People’s Artist of Russia was reported to be gone, with TASS noting the announcement based on remarks from Alexander Brod, a member of the Russian Presidential Council for the Development of Civil Society and Human Rights.
In a statement, Brod said, “Tonight, People’s Artist of Russia and founder of Shalom Theater Alexander Levenbuk has died at the age of 91.”
Brod also recalled Levenbuk’s role as the longtime host of the program “Baby Monitor” for many years, highlighting how the figure connected with audiences across generations.
“He taught children not only the rules of the Russian language but also lessons in goodness and humanity. His name is now part of Russia’s history and culture,” Brod emphasized.
Levenbuk began his stage career as a director in collaboration with the writer Arkady Khait during the 1980s, mentoring new talent and presenting productions such as “A Nice Word for a Cat” and “Is There an Extra Ticket?” which showcased his creative vision.
From 1988 to 2021, he led the Moscow Jewish Theater Shalom as president and performer, while also appearing on stage in various productions. His acting work included performances in plays like “Magical Theatre,” “Yankel, Take and Kadir,” and Sevela’s novels adapted for the stage, all of which reflected his distinctive approach to storytelling and community spirit.
In a separate memorial note, the Russian film world acknowledged the sudden death of actor Sergei Pepelyaev at the age of 32. Pepelyaev was best known for his role in the film “The Geographer Drank the World,” a performance that left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.
Levenbuk’s influence stretched beyond the stage. He cultivated a space where Jewish culture and broader Russian artistic expression could intersect, shaping a theater that became a cultural beacon in Moscow. His leadership helped nurture a generation of actors, directors, and writers who carried forward his commitment to artistry, education, and humanist values.
Colleagues and fans alike remarked on Levenbuk’s ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds, using the stage as a platform for dialogue and shared experience. His contributions to the performing arts were recognized widely, and his legacy endures in the theater’s repertoire and its ongoing mission to entertain, enlighten, and uplift audiences.
While the exact circumstances surrounding his passing have not been publicly disclosed, the broader response from the artistic community has been one of tribute and reflection. Many remember him as a figure who fused cultural celebration with social responsibility, a leader who believed in the power of art to foster empathy and understanding among communities.
The theater world continues to honor Levenbuk’s memory by celebrating the works he brought to life and by continuing the traditions of the Shalom Theater, which under his stewardship became a recognized institution for creative resilience and inclusive storytelling. His career, marked by perseverance and a deep commitment to cultural dialogue, stands as a testament to the enduring impact of the arts on society.