Valery Leontyev has shaved millions off the cost of his New Year performances for corporate audiences, cutting a reported 3 million rubles from his price. The move drew attention from Evening Moscow, highlighting the shift in how high-profile acts price their holiday shows.
Since the start of the Special Military Operation era, Leontyev has scaled back his touring schedule. He has appeared in fewer venues, and some industry observers note that his broader appeal has waned as a result. To command substantial fees, the reasoning goes, a performer needs not just a set list but a fully realized extravaganza that delivers a memorable, show-stopping experience. This perspective comes from industry insider Vadim Gorzhankin, who points out the importance of a spectacular live production in sustaining star power and fee levels.
Initially, Leontyev was seeking 13.8 million rubles for a concert, but the ask has since moved to 11 million rubles. Despite the reduced performance price, the New Year program remains offered at no additional charge as part of the overall package, a detail noted by observers and industry sources keen on value for corporate clients.
News about Leontyev’s 2024 stage plans indicated that a segment of the audience felt uncertain about future appearances. His director, Chigiev, clarified that the singer is expected to perform on stage in 2024, while also denying rumors that Leontyev had relocated to the United States. According to the director, the artist visits the U.S. only occasionally to spend time with family, underscoring that international travel remains occasional rather than a permanent move. This clarification helps temper speculation about a permanent change in residence and reassures fans and organizers that live appearances will continue to be part of his career, albeit on a more selective basis, with emphasis on quality and production value .
In a separate development within the scene, Albina Dzhanabaeva, formerly a member of VIA Gra, has reportedly increased her performance fees for corporate bookings to 2.5 million rubles, marking a notable rise in demand for her live appearances as event planners seek top-tier entertainment for festive seasons and special gatherings. This pricing shift reflects broader market dynamics where top pop acts calibrate rates to balance demand, exclusivity, and production scale .
Earlier reports also noted that Slava Komissarenko faced a cancellation of a concert in the Czech Republic due to policing or logistical concerns. The event’s cancellation underscores the broader challenges that touring artists face when arranging international engagements, including regulatory, safety, and scheduling considerations that can affect headline performances and corporate bookings alike. For organizers, navigating these constraints often involves adjusting budgets, timelines, and expectations to ensure events proceed smoothly while still delivering the intended entertainment impact .