The veteran poet Ilya Reznik recently commented on the abrupt absence of key performers at a concert commemorating his 85th birthday. He explained that he only learned of the change once the show had begun, receiving a backstage note that simply stated there would be no performance by Dima Bilan. Reznik recalled the moment with a hint of disbelief, noting that the news came as a surprise during the opening moments of the event. The singer was expected to perform the piece Sinful Passion, but Bilan did not participate in the celebration, leaving Reznik to process the development in real time.
Reznik described his reaction to Bilan’s absence in candid terms, saying that the absence would not be remedied and could not be changed in the moment. Media reports suggested that the author of many of Alla Pugacheva’s hits was deeply unsettled by the news that Maxim Dunayevsky would also be unable to attend. According to those reports, health concerns were cited as a possible reason for Dunayevsky’s nonappearance, though no official statement was provided at that time. The pair’s absence added an extra layer of poignancy to the milestone event, which was marked by the presence of other performances and tributes.
Earlier remarks from Reznik indicated that he had entrusted the celebration with several interpretations of Alla Pugacheva’s repertoire to Jasmine, a singer who has previously performed Pugacheva’s songs. The poet suggested that Pugacheva herself might not attend the anniversary, though there was still a possibility she could appear in the future. Dunayevsky’s participation, in particular, had become a focal point for attendees and fans watching the proceedings. Observers noted that a colleague of the artist had performed for a substantial portion of the evening at a prior anniversary, underscoring the sense of continuity and shared history among the performers involved.
In reflecting on the gathering, it became clear that the event balanced nostalgia with the uncertainties that often accompany large milestones in the careers of long-standing artists. While some fans anticipated surprise appearances, others recognized that schedules and health concerns can override even the most carefully laid plans. The concert nonetheless offered a space for appreciation of Reznik’s contributions and for the public to engage with a curated selection of songs associated with the era and the artists who shaped it. The overall mood ranged from celebratory to reflective, with attendees and commentators continuing to discuss what the absence of certain figures might signify for future appearances and collaborations. Attribution: dni.ru.