Official figures from the regional government indicate that the gala concert of the all-Russian festival We are not abandoning our own took place at the Kristall Sports Palace in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk from February 22 to 24, drawing an audience of more than two thousand attendees. The event served as a high-profile showcase of cultural resilience and national solidarity, drawing music lovers from across the region to celebrate state and regional artistic achievement.
In remarks that framed the performances as more than mere entertainment, the festival’s organizers highlighted the role of contemporary artists as cultural ambassadors who carry messages of patriotism through song. The speakers underscored the enduring link between the homeland and the arts, noting that songs about love for the Motherland can provide emotional sustenance during difficult times. The governor of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk expressed confidence that the festival demonstrates a shared sense of purpose and connection among millions of citizens, even as many serve far from home. The festival was presented as a palpable manifestation of unity and collective spirit during ongoing national efforts to support the country and its people.
officials also acknowledged broad support from national leadership and political organizations for the idea of hosting a large-scale cultural event at the federal level in Sakhalin. The festival in Sakhalin followed a prior concert held at Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchanges that cross regional and national boundaries while reinforcing common values across the country.
Following the initiative in the island region, the concept gained traction in seven additional Russian cities, extending the reach of the festival’s message. The momentum carried to places including the Kemerovo region and Moscow, as well as St. Petersburg, Nizhny Novgorod, Kazan, Novokuznetsk, and Belovo, with events also taking place in Lugansk. The nationwide expansion illustrated how regional communities connect through shared artistic experiences, contributing to a broader dialogue about national identity and cultural heritage.
During the gala on Sakhalin, a diverse lineup graced the stage, featuring both well-known stars and local cultural figures. Notable performers included Yulia Chicherina, Sergey Bobunets, Dzhango, the groups 7B, Va-Bank, Zveroboy, and Earring, as well as Sergey Galanin, Pyotr Lundstrem, Sandra Mantika, and other prominent artists. The program also highlighted regional talents such as the South Sakhalin Chamber Orchestra, the White Dew folklore troupe, the Exotica folk dance ensemble, and the Drevo Dance Theater. Local and visiting performers from Donetsk and Luhansk People’s Republics were represented by the Sobor ensemble, Akim Apachev, and Natalya Kachura, enriching the cultural mosaic with a wide array of musical and dance performances. The island’s cultural calendar thus offered a comprehensive celebration of music, dance, and heritage, reflecting a shared commitment to artistic expression as a unifying force across communities.