A gala night unfolded at the VTB Arena sports complex on December 17, celebrating the 50th birthday of Ilya Averbukh, a renowned Russian director, producer, coach, and figure skater. The event marked a milestone for a figure who has influenced multiple generations in Russian sport and entertainment.
The ice rink welcomed a host of skaters and show business personalities who came to honor Averbukh. Guests stepped onto the ice alongside the celebrant, sharing a moment of festive camaraderie that blended sport, music, and theater in a single evening.
The evening’s centerpiece featured an on-ice appearance by Olympic champion Roman Kostomarov. He delivered two performances, first partnering with Oksana Domnina and later with Tatyana Navka. They offered an excerpt from their iconic routine to Carmen, the program that propelled them to gold at the Turin Games and remains a touchstone of their competitive legacy.
Navka reflected on the moment, noting, “I can’t believe we still fit into these suits after 18 years. We have pursued this moment for a long time; we competed side by side, we were rivals, and the energy of our youth remains unforgettable. The performances were remarkable and the shows unforgettable.”
Kostomarov received a standing ovation from the audience, many of whom were visibly moved. Tears mixed with cheers as fans expressed their appreciation for the skater’s enduring impact and the artistry he shared that night.
Averbukh himself returned to the ice several times during the program. The roster included Marina Anisina, a two-time world junior champion, who celebrated with coach Natalya Linichuk and former partner Irina Lobacheva on a victory lap that underscored the sense of history and continuity surrounding the event.
The celebration extended over more than four hours, delivering a blend of musical performances and personal tributes. Luminaries from the Russian stage and screen offered their congratulations, among them Philip Kirkorov, Tatyana Tarasova, Regina Todorenko, Vlad Topalov, Dmitry Malikov, and several popular singers and TV personalities. The night also featured live performances by the State Academic Russian Folk Ensemble Russia named after Lyudmila Zykina, highlighting the ceremonial country’s rich cultural tapestry.
As the finale approached, Ilya Averbukh’s sons, Martin and Lev, joined him on stage, sharing a moment that connected generations of the family’s public life with the public’s ongoing appreciation for his career and influence.
The earlier moments of the show had included remarks and memories from colleagues who spoke about Averbukh’s broader contributions to sport, entertainment, and mentorship. The overall sense of celebration emphasized not only a birthday but a tribute to a career that has intertwined athletic discipline with creative expression, coaching, and a lasting impact on Russia’s skating community.
In reflecting on the evening, attendees recognized a unique fusion of athletic excellence and artistic performance. The event served as a reminder that figure skating, when paired with showmanship and communal celebration, can generate a lasting cultural moment that resonates with fans and performers alike across generations.
Another notable moment involved Natalia Bestemyanova, who was surprised by Kostomarov’s appearance in the show, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defined Averbukh’s circle. The evening’s program demonstrated how personal connections among skaters and performers can create an enduring legacy that extends beyond competition and into public celebration.