VITEBSK, 12 July (BelTA) – The international art festival Slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk makes brotherly relations between Belarus and Russia stronger, said People’s Artist of Russia Lev Leshchenko as a star in his name was unveiled in the alley of laureates of the Belarus President award “Through art towards peace and mutual understanding” on 12 July. Slavonic Bazaar in Vitebsk is the only ex-USSR festival, to which artistes flock eagerly to share their art with spectators and talk to fellow professionals. It is there that Belarus and Russia are integrated through culture. The festival contributes to preserving and enhancing brotherly relations between the two nations. It is a great thing, said Lev Leshchenko. The artiste also talked about his warm feelings towards the city of Vitebsk. “I’ve read about the city many times, about Marc Chagall, I know what tragic consequences the war brought about: the city was virtually destroyed, with a huge number of people dead. I still feel this heroic stoical spirit. I like Vitebsk very much. I am fond of its remarkable environment, purity and hospitality of people”. The singer was truly touched by the award. At the star unveiling ceremony Lev Leshchenko could not but express his emotions. Together with the children’s collective Forum of the cultural center Vitebsk he was singing along and then fully joined in singing one of his smash hits “Solovyinaya Roshcha” [nightingale’s copse]. The artist mentioned his plans for the future. He admitted he was intent on going on a jubilee tour of three or four capital cities this year. He had recorded a disc “Unpublished songs”. For now it is a gift-wrapped edition but it may be released in numbers, said Lev Leshchenko.

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