Choreographer Ilya Averbukh Shares Details About Roman Kostomarov’s Involvement in the New Year Gala
Choreographer Ilya Averbukh opened up about the participation of Roman Kostomarov in the upcoming New Year gala, a special ice dancing event that gathers stars and athletes. In a conversation with Sport Express, he revealed the plans and the emotional significance of Kostomarov’s possible presence at the show. The emphasis was not on a final promise of skating on ice but on the powerful symbolism of Kostomarov being part of the celebration, an idea that resonates deeply with the audience and the skating community. The sense given by Averbukh is that Kostomarov’s attendance would mark a meaningful moment for many fans and supporters, highlighting the enduring bond between the skater and those who have stood by him for years. Kostomarov remains a close friend of Averbukh’s wife, Oksana Domnina, which adds a personal layer to the commitment and the emotional weight of the occasion, even if the exact mechanics of Kostomarov’s involvement are kept private and carefully communicated.
The New Year gala is titled “Together and Forever” and serves as a milestone celebration for Ilya Averbukh himself, commemorating his 50th anniversary. The event brings together a wide array of performers from the world of dance and sport, each contributing to a night that blends athletic excellence with artistic expression. The program is structured to honor enduring partnerships, the resilience of athletes, and the joy of shared pursuits. While Kostomarov’s role is anticipated by many, the broader focus remains on the collective energy and the sense of unity that the gala aims to convey to audiences around the world. The event is framed as a tribute to perseverance and the power of community in sports and performance.
Earlier in January 2023, Kostomarov faced a severe health crisis following New Year performances at an outdoor show. Reports indicated that he was admitted to intensive care due to pneumonia and required ventilation, with medical assessments describing his condition as extremely serious. He subsequently received treatment at Kommunarka, where doctors worked to stabilize his condition and address complications. During that period, parts of his arms and legs were amputated as part of his medical care. By the start of July 2023, Kostomarov had been discharged from the hospital, marking a critical turning point on his road to recovery. The journey since then has involved ongoing rehabilitation and adaptation to life after the life-altering events. The focus in medical updates has consistently been on gradual improvement and the possibilities that the future may hold for the skater in terms of new activities and personal milestones.
In December 2023, Kostomarov made another notable step by returning to the ice on dentures, a symbolic and practical gesture demonstrating his resolve and determination to stay connected to his lifelong passion. This moment illustrated the theme of resilience that has defined his story, showing that the love of skating can endure through adversity. The resilience of Kostomarov has been a central talking point for fans, medical professionals, and fellow athletes who view his path as a source of inspiration. The narrative surrounding his recovery continues to emphasize the importance of support systems, personal courage, and the ongoing efforts to regain mobility and confidence after such profound changes.
There has also been public discussion from Kostomarov’s former spouse, who has offered perspectives on how the skater navigated these challenging circumstances and managed to keep moving forward. This insight into the personal dimension of Kostomarov’s journey adds depth to the broader story of recovery, showing how relationships, memory, and shared history can influence the process of rebuilding a life after a traumatic health event. The conversations surrounding his recovery have highlighted a combination of professional medical care, family support, and the tenacity that athletes bring to any rehabilitation process, reinforcing the sense that Kostomarov remains a central figure in the skating community and in the hearts of fans around the world (Sport Express).