October 25, 2024, Monmouth Reform Temple, Tinton Falls, New Jersey
Musicians Mikhail and Elina played during the service at the Monmouth Reform Temple in Tinton Falls, New Jersey. Dancers Vera and Haley joined musicians for one hour performance after the service.
October 25, 2024, Wedding at Antrim 1844, Taneytown, Maryland
Four dancers "crashed" the wedding reception at the Antrim 1844 in Taneytown, Maryland. Performance included Surprise Grand Entrance, Hopak, Kolomyika, Pidmanula, up-beat dance with guests, short photo session with Newlyweds and guests.
October 22, 2024. Event at New York Police Department Headquarers, New York City
Ensemble Barynya was the main performer during Eastern European Heritage Night, sponsored by the Russian American Officers Association (RAOA). The event took place at NYPD Headquarters at One Police Plaza on October 22, 2024. The evening featured performances by Barynya and Pesvebi, delicious food, and guest speakers.
October 11, 2024. St. George Pathfinders Ball, The Royal Manor, Garfield, NJ
Musicians and singers of Barynya performed during St. George Pathfinders Ball on October 11th, 2024 at the Royal Manor, 454 Midland Ave, Garfield, NJ 07026. Band consisted of Boris Kurganov (sax), Alisa Egorova (k-bass), Alex Uskin (accordion), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Sasha Mogilevich (drums).
September 21 and 22, 2024. Ann Arbor Russian Festival, Michigan
Ensemble Barynya was the headliner at the Ann Arbor Festival-2024, 9900 Jackson Rd., Dexter, MI 48130 on Saturday, September 21, 2024, and Sunday, September 22, 2024.
December 2023. Interview with Ded Moroz, Snegurochka, and Baba Yaga - Voice Of America journalist visits Ded Moroz, Snegurochka, and Baba Yaga's house in New Jersey
Cossack Dance Performance and Workshop, Jubilee Auditorium, the Seton Hall University
Article by Anna Kuchta, Categories: Arts and Culture, Campus Life.
Monday, November 6, 2023
09-16-2023. St. George Festival 2023 in Loveland, Ohio
Dancer Alisa Egorova, balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina, and Mikhail Smirnov (singer, button accorion-garmoshka player) at the St. George Festival 2023 in Loveland, Ohio on the grounds of St. George Russian Orthodox Church, 118 N Lebanon Rd, Loveland, OH.
Wedding in New Jersey, Seasons Catering, Township of Washington, June 11, 2023
Gypsy show during wedding at the Seasons Catering, 644 Pascack Rd, Township of Washington, NJ 07676. Performers cast: Konstantin Tulinov, Arsentii Oskin, Dmitriy Gazizov, Alisa Egorova, Maija Rutkovska, Maria Klyuchnikova, Elina Karokhina, and Mikhail Smirnov.
Arrow Park's 75th Anniversary in Monroe, New York on June 10, 2023
Six dancers and two musicians of ensemble Barynya performed 90 min concert during Arrow Park's 75th Anniversary event. Exact address of the venue: 1061 Orange Turnpike, Monroe, NY. Performers cast: Konstantin Tulinov, Arsentii Oskin, Dmitriy Gazizov, Alisa Egorova, Maija Rutkovska, Maria Klyuchnikova, Elina Karokhina, and Mikhail Smirnov.
Russian Nobility Ball 2023, The Pierre A Taj Hotel, New York City
On Friday, May 5, 2023 90th Annual Russian Nobility Ball took place at The Pierre A Taj Hotel in New York City. Musicians played during cocktail hour, dancers opened the Ball with a Waltz from Sleeping Beauty. The dinner show included Kolomeyka, Mexican, Tatar, American, Gypsy, Flamenko, Hopak, Chardash (instrumental), and Kalinka.
Musicians of ensemble Barynya were playing in Brooklyn on Saturday, May 6th, 2023 from 9pm to midnight. Performance took place in colorful Sheepshead Bay neighborhood of Southern Brooklyn at the Anyway Cafe and Bar, 1602 Gravesend Neck Road, Brooklyn, New York 11229. Musicians Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals, garmoshka) and Elina Karokhina (domra, mandolin, balalaika, back vocals) performed world music, classical, contemporary, etc.
Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov at the Anyway Cafe Brooklyn, 05-06-2023, Saturday, May 6th, 2023
В субботу, 6-ого мая 2023-его года для жителей города и туристов в колоритном бруклинском районе Шипсхед-Бей (южный Бруклин) в исполнении виртуозных музыкантов ансамбля "Барыня" - Элина Карохина (балалайка, домра, мандолина), Михаил Смирнов (гитара, гармошка, вокал) - звучала живая музыка.
02-23-2023, Lafayette Soho Adult restaurant in New York City
On Thursday, February 23, 2023 four dancers surprised everyone by making an appearance during an adult bat mitzvah celebration at the Restaurant Lafayette Soho in New York City (380 Lafayette Street).
On Sunday, January 22, 2023 four dancers performed during wedding in Teaneck, New Jersey. This Jewish wedding would not be complete without the Hora. After their Bottle Dance routine, dancers invited other guests to join them for the traditional chair dance.
12-07-2022. New Year's 2023 celebration in Brooklyn
Ded Moroz, Snegurochka, and Olaf presented one hour New Year's show for kids, their parents and employees of the kinder care located in Brooklyn. Olaf is the new addition to Ded Moroz show introduced to the audience in December 2022. Olaf is a fictional character from Disney's "Frozen" franchise, produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. Olaf is an inanimate snowman created by Elsa and Anna in their childhood. Дед Мороз, Снегурочка и Олаф (англ. Olaf) — основной персонаж диснеевского полнометражного мультфильма 2013 года Холодное сердце и его продолжения 2019 года - поздравили детей, родителей и сотрудников детcкого садика в Бруклине. Олаф впервые был представлен в Шоу Деда Мороза в декабре 2022-ого года.
11-23-2022. Hidden Spring Lavender & Alpaca Farm in Skillman, Somerset County, NJ
Cheburashka and Krokodil Gena attended kid's party in New Jersey on Wednesday, November 23rd, 2022. This private event took place at the Hidden Spring Lavender & Alpaca Farm, 890 Belle Mead-Blawenburg Rd, Skillman, NJ 08558. (Somerset County, New Jersey). 1 hour program of entertainment included interactive games, music, songs, and dances. Music was performed live on garmoshka and balalaika. Роли Чебурашки и Крокодила Гены исполнили артисты ансамбля "БАРЫНЯ".
November 22, 2022, 6pm, Sheepshead Bay Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library
An Evening of Ukranian Folk Music and Dance event will take place on Tuesday, November 22 at 6pm at the Sheepshead Bay Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library. This event will uplift the spirits of Ukranian refugees, their friends, and supporters. It is also a unique opportunity for everyone to discover the beautiful culture of Ukraine
Dancer Maija Rutkovskaia, dancer Olga Chpitalnaia, singer Natasha Stolichnaia, musician Elina Karokhina (domra), musician Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals) provided 45 min show during private party at the Chateau De Capitainе restaurant, 2570 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, New York.
November 17, 2022, 7pm, Penn State Behrend College, Erie, Pennsylvania
On Thursday, November 17th, 2022 starting at 6:30pm three dancers and two musicians performed one hour show at the Penn State Behrend College in Erie, Pennsylvania. Exact address of the venue: McGarvey Commons for International Student Organization at the Penn State Behrend, 4701 College Dr., Erie, PA 16563-4117.
November 17, 2022, 11am, Thiel College, Greenville, Pennsylvania
On Thursday, November 17th, 2022 starting at 11am three dancers and two musicians performed one hour show at the Thiel College in Greenville, Pennsylvania. Exact address of the venue: Thiel College, 75 College Ave, Greenville, Pennsylvania 16125.
November 16, 2022, Penn State Worthington/Scranton, Dunmore, Pennsylvania
On Wednesday, November 16th, 2022 three dancers and two musicians performed one hour show at the Penn State Worthington/Scranton in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. Exact address of the venue: View Cafe / Study Learning Center, Penn State Worthington/Scranton, 120 Ridge View Drive, Dunmore, PA 18512.
November 11, 2022. Wedding at the Chelsea Piers in Manhattan, New York
Six dancers interrupted the first dance of the Newlyweds at the Current at Chelsea Piers in New York City. Exact address of the venue: Pier 59, Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011.
November 5, 2022. Benefit event at 3BR Distillery in Keyport, New Jersey
On Saturday, November 5th, 2022 two musicians performed one hour concert during benefit gig for at the 3BR Distillery in Keyport, New Jersey (3BR Distillery, 7 Main St, Keyport, NJ 07735).
October 22, 2022. Birthday party at the Sixth Floor Loft in New York City
On Saturday, October 22nd, 2022, from 9:30 to 10pm Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Leonid Bruk, Natasha Stolichnaia, and Alisa Egorova performed 30 min show during 50th Anniversary celebration at the Sixth Floor Loft in New York City. Exact address of the venue: The Sixth Floor Loft, 873 Broadway, New York, New York 10003.
October 21, 2022. Long Island, Suffolk County PTA Showcase, Melville, New York
4 dancers and 1 musician performed during Suffolk County PTA Showcase at the West Hallow Middle School in Melville, New York on Friday, October 21, 2022, (7pm).
October 15, 2022. Grand opening of the Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center in Mt Pocono, PA
Two musicians played for about two hours (from 5:30pm to 7:30pm) during Grand opening at the Magnolia Inn & Wellness Center in Mt Pocono, Pennsylvania on Saturday, October 15th, 2022. Over a hundred guests attended the Ribbon Cutting Celebration. Exact address of the venue: 11 Knob Rd, Mt Pocono, PA 18344-1403, Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, United States. Performers cast: Elina Karokhina ( domra), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals).
Live Music Balalaika Band - Wedding Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve - in Scottsville, Virginia - October 8, 2022
DJ Alisa, bilingual MC-Tamada Mikhail and eight piece live music band provided music and entertainment for mixed Russian-Jewish-American wedding reception in Scottsville, Virginia on Saturday, October 8th, 2022. For their venue newlyweds selected Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve, 5600 Moonlight Dr, Scottsville, VA 24590.
October 8th, 2022, Slavic Heritage Festival, St. Mary's Assumption Church, Joppa, Maryland
Dancer Arsentii Oskin, dancer Veronika Hunko, dancer Victoria Ivanova, dancer Hаnna Khаlikovа, dancer Oleg Serban, and musician Yaacov Mayman provided three 60 min shows during Annual Slavic Heritage Festival at the St. Mary's Assumption Eastern Rite Church in Joppa, Maryland on Saturday, October 8th, 2022. Exact name and address of the venue: St. Mary's Assumption Eastern Rite Church, 2807 Mountain Road, Joppa, Maryland 21085.
October 7th, 2022, St. George Pathfinders Ball, Congers, New York
On Friday, October 7th, 2022 from 9pm to 12:30am New York Barynya Balalaika Orchestra provided music at the St. George Pathfinders Ball (ежегодный осенний благотворительный бал организации ОРЮР - Организация Российских Юных Разведчиков) at the Town and Country Caterers, 922 Route 9W, Congers, NY, 10920. Repertoire of the band included Russian, Gypsy, American, Ukrainian, and an international music and songs. Musicians: Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), singer Vera Bergman, Alexandra Mogilevich (drums), Igor Balaban (keyboard, saxophone).
October 6, 2022. Сoncert at the Siena College in Loudonville, New York
Six dancers, two musicians and singer provided 1 hour 15 min show at the Siena College in Loudonville, New York on Thursday, October 6, 2022. Performers cast: singer Galina Ivannikova, dancer Sergey Tsyganok, dancer Konstantin Tulinov, dancer Arsentii Oskin, dancer Alisa Egorova, dancer Olga Yeliseyeva, dancer Maria Klychnikov, Elina Karokhina (musician, domra), Mikhail Smirnov (musician, garmoshka, guitar, vocals). Exact address of the venue: Sarazen Student Union, Siena College, 515 Loudon Road, Loudonville, NY 12211.
10-02-2022. Medieval Festival at the Fort Tryon Park, Washington Heights, Manhattan, New York
The Medieval Festival in Fort Tryon Park was back after a 2-year hiatus. On Sunday, October 2, 2022 Washington Heights' Fort Tryon Park was transformed into a medieval market town decorated with bright banners and processional flags. Performers and guests were dressed in medieval costumes. Visitors were greeted by authentic period music, dance, magic, and minstrels, as well as jugglers and jesters. The festival included thrilling jousts between four knights on horseback. This free for public event was produced by NYC Parks and the Washington Heights and Inwood Development Corporation with support from the Fort Tryon Park Trust. Cast of the company included twelve dancers, musicians and singers. Exact address of the venue: Fort Tryon Park, Riverside, Dr To Broadway, New York, NY 10040.
October 1, 2022. World Of Colors Concert at the Edmond Town Hall Theater in Newtown, Connecticut
On Saturday, October 1st, 2022 dancers Valentina Kvasova, Alisa Egorova, Maria Klyuchnikov, and Arsentii Oskin performed during World Of Colors Concert at the Edmond Town Hall Theater in Newtown, Connecticut, zip code 06470, United States (Black Tie & Red Carpet Event). 3-5PM Red Carpet, 5-8:30 PM Concert, 8:30 - 10:30PM Gala Reception.
September 25, 2022. Birthday party in New York City - "К нам приехал наш любимый..."
Mikhail and Elina played for about an hour during surprise birthday party in New York City on Sunday, September 25th, 2022. Performance took place in an apartment building. About 20 adults and couple of kids attended (as well as two dogs). Артисты поздравили именинника, попели, поиграли, повеселили гостей, пофотографировались с теми, кто пожелал. Адрес 160 East 65 street Нью-Йорк Сити. Имениннику Валере исполнилось 60 лет. Выступление цыган было сюрпризом от жены Риты и гостьи Елены. Валера ничего не знал о предстоящем празднике. Гости его уже ждали дома. Супруге хотелось, чтобы всё было как в "Бесприданнице" - мужа бы встретили с бокалом шампанского на подносе и песней "К нам приехал наш любимый...". Так всё в точности и произошло.
September 24th, 2022. Wedding at the Duportail House in Chesterbrook, Pennsylvania
On Saturday, September 24th, 2022 six dancers "crashed" Ukrainian wedding with their surprise appearance. 30 min show included national Ukrainian dance Hopak, Kolomyika dance, Pidmanula. In the end of the show dancers invited all guests to try Ukrainian folk dancing. During couple's first dance one of the dancers dressed into traditional Ukrainian outfit interrupted the wedding by showing up in the middle of the dance floor looking for "Mykola Cybyk" and his 80th Jubilee party. When he realizes that it's a wrong event he "suddenly" "recognized" one of the guests: - "Hey, John, how's your new Honda? What are you doing here?!" After he "got the information that it is a wedding" he congratulated the Groom and Bride on their good choice and invited other dancers to come out and do the performance: "Come here, boys and girls, we are going to perform here! It's a bunch of good people, and beautiful couple Bride and Groom". After the show dancers took photos with the Newlyweds and their guests. Dancers showed up on the location fully dressed and brought their own powerful wireless speaker. Exact address of the venue: Duportail House - Chesterbrook, 297 Adams Dr, Chesterbrook, PA 19087.
September 23, 2022. 10th Anniversary Event at the Chateau De Capitaine in Brooklyn
On Friday, September 23, 2022 Alisa, Mikhail and Elina performed 45 min show during Circle Of Friends Adult Day Care Center's 10th Anniversary Celebration at the Chateau De Capitaine restaurant in Brooklyn, New York. Exact address of the venue: Chateau De Capitaine, 2570 Coney Island Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11223.
09-18-2022. Wedding at The Regency O'Fallon, Saint Louis, Missouri
On Sunday, September 18th, 2022 from 5 to 11pm DJ Elina and MC Mikhail provided music and entertainment during mixed Russian-Bulgarian-Ukrainian-American wedding ceremony and reception at the The Regency O'Fallon in Saint Louis, Missouri. Exact address of the venue: The Regency O'Fallon, 400 Regency Park, O'Fallon, IL 62269. (The venue is located about 20 min drive from Saint Louis, Missouri). Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina also played a few traditional songs on balalaika, garmoshka, and guitar during dinner.
09-10-2022. Wedding at the Noble Nest in White Lake, New York
Small private Russian-American wedding took place at the Noble Nest in White Lake, New York on Saturday, September 10th, 2022. The ceremony started at 2:30pm, dinner and reception went from 5:30pm to 11:30pm. The ceremony took place at the gazebo on the lake. Wedding Minister and MC-Tamada Mikhail, DJ Elina. Exact address of the venue: Noble Nest, 100 Moscoe Road, White Lake, NY 12786.
09-09-2022. Moldavian Wedding at the Falada restaurant in Brooklyn, New York
On Friday, September 9th, 2022 four dancers performed a show during a small wedding with 30 guests at the Falada Restaurant in Brooklyn, New York. Exact address of the venue: Falada, 2011 Emmons Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235.
08-28-2022. Russian Wedding reception at The Shore Club in Spring Lake, New Jersey
On Sunday, August 28th, 2022 from 6 to 11pm Mikhail and Elina performed during wedding reception (cocktail hour and dinner) at The Shore Club in Spring Lake.
The Newlyweds especially wanted the Hopak dance during the dancing part. Exact address of the venue: Shore Club, NJ, 700 NJ-71, Spring Lake, NJ 07762.
08-28-2022. Show during New York City Radio station Freedom FM 104.7 at Festival on Brighton Beach Ave in Brooklyn
On Sunday, August 28th, 2022 New York City Radio station Freedom FM 104.7 invited musicians of the "Barynya Balalaika Trio" to perform during Brighton Beach Festival. The stage was setup on the corner of Brighton Beach Avenue & Brighton 11th Street in Brooklyn. Cast of musicians: Leonid Bruk, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov.
08-27-2022. Solo concert, Untermyer Park, Yonkers, New York.
Saturday, August 27th, 2022. Solo concert of the band in Untermyer Park in Yonkers, New York was sponsored by the Untermyer Performing Arts Council (@upac1976) - a Nonprofit organization (www.untermyerperformingarts.org) that is presenting some of the best in performing arts in beautiful Untermyer Park free for the people of Yonkers, Westchester and beyond since 1976. Cast of musicians on the day of the show included Lina Karokhina (domra), Misha Smirnov (guitar, vocals), Slava Bell (violin), Sasha Barder (keyboard, clarinet, sax). Exact address of the venue: Untermyer Park, 945 North Broadway, Yonkers NY.
On Friday, August 19th, 2022 from 9pm to midnight Mikhail and Elina played at the Anyway Cafe in Brooklyn. Exact address: 1602 Gravesend Neck Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11229.
August 13, 2022, Wedding at the Metropolitan Club of New York City
On Saturday, August 13th, 2022 around 9pm three dancers performed at wedding reception at the Metropolitan Club of New York, 1 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022. Dancers Alisa, Dinara and Olga start the party after dinner, mix and mingle, pose for photos, do short Can-Can dance workshop with any guests who will be willing to try. Dancers performed two Can-Can routines: one classical, one modern, and also danced with the guests for a short period of time.
August 13, 2022, Multicultural Dance Night at the Burlington County Amphitheater in Westampton, New Jersey
On Saturday, August 13th, 2022 around 6pm the company performed 30 min show during Multicultural Dance Night at the Burlington County Amphitheater located at 5 Pioneer Blvd in Westampton, New Jersey. The program included dances, songs, and music from Europe and around the world: French Can-Can, Ukrainian Hopak, Gypsy-Roma Mardzhandzha, Moldavian Jog, and many other selections.
August 13, 2022. Wedding at the Asbury Hotel, Asbury Park, New Jersey
On Saturday, August 13th, 2022 around 9pm Mikhail and Elina performed a short segment during wedding reception at the Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park, New Jersey (210 Fifth Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712). Program of the show included just a few songs: песню Вероники Долиной "А хочешь я выучусь шить", Валенки, Хава нагила, Чардаш, Московские окна и Деспозито.
August 13, 2022. Two concerts at the Historic Cold Spring Village in Cape May, New Jersey
On Saturday August 13th, 2022 musicians of Barynya Balalaika Duo Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina performed two shows at the Historic Cold Spring Village (summer-opening living history village dedicated to life in the first years of American independence) in Cape May, New Jersey. Exact address of the venue: Historic Cold Spring Village, 735 Seashore Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204. Address for GPS: 720 Rt 9 South, Cape May, NJ 08204. First show: 11:00-11:45pm and second show: 12:00-12:45pm.
August 6, 2022. Ukrainian wedding ceremony at the Drumore Estate in Pequea, Pennsylvania (Martic Township in Lancaster County)
On Saturday, August 6th, 2022 around 4pm Mikhail and Elina performed during Ivan and Andrea Ukrainian wedding ceremony at the Drumore Estate in Pequea, Pennsylvania - Lancaster's popular wedding venue located in Martic Township of the Lancaster County. Exact address: 331 Red Hill Road, Pequea, PA 17565. Requested music included Kolomeyka, Lemko Wedding Song, Yellow by Coldplay, Rainbow by Kasey Musgraves, and other selections.
August 4, 2022. Dancers "crashing" Ukrainian wedding in Avalon, New Jersey
On Thursday, August 4th, 2022 around 9:30pm six dancers "crashed" a wedding reception at the Icona Avalon, 7849 Dune Drive, Avalon, New Jersey 08202. "Surprise" performance for guests and family included Hopak, Pidmanula, Kolomiyka and round dance with all guests at the party. In the beginning two dancers showed up to the grand Ball Room of the Icona Avalon dressed into traditional Ukrainian outfits. They stopped all activities asking everyone (in Ukrainian and English) for directions to Mykola Tarasovich Shevchenko's 50th Wedding Anniversary. After a few moments of confusion dancers “recognized” Bride and Groom, congratulated them, and invite the rest of the dance company to the stage by telling them in Ukrainian and English that "This is good people's wedding and we will need to dance for them". In the end of the choreographed performance dancers asked all guests if they want to try a few Ukrainian dance moves themselves. Everyone were invited to the dance floor.
July 24, 2022. Valentina's 70th Surprise Birthday party at Donatella Restaurant in Harrington Park, NJ
On Sunday, July 24th, 2022 from 1 to 5pm Mikhail and Elina performed at the Valentina's Surprise 70th Birthday party at Donatella Restaurant, 12 Tappan Road, Harrington Park, New Jersey. Музыканты исполнили все любимые песни именинницы: "Миллион алых роз", "Лаванда", "Очи Черные", "Коробейники", "Смуглянка" и многие другие.
July 21, 2022. Bare Feet Downtown Brooklyn concert series, Plaza at 300 Ashland, Brooklyn, New York
On Thursday, July 21st, 2022 from 6:30pm-8:30pm dancers, musicians, and singers performed two hours program during "Bare Feet Downtown Brooklyn" concert series at the Plaza at 300 Ashland (right by BAM in Brooklyn). Local CBS News reporter Hannah Kliger was covering this event. Cast of performers: musician/singer Sergey Pobedinskiy, singer Ludmila Fesenko, dancer Maija Rutkovsky, dancer Olga Yeliseeva, dancer Arsentii Oskin, singer/musician Mikhail Smirnov, musician Elina Karokhina, dancer Alisa Egorova, dancer Vladimir Nikitin, dancer Sergey Tsyganok.
July 20, 2022. Virtual performance for Schechter Holocaust Services in Waltham, Massachusetts
Wednesday, July 20th, 2022, 1:30pm. Live performance via Zoom for Schechter Holocaust Services in Waltham, Massachusetts. The program was sponsored by Jewish Family & Children’s Service, 1430 Main Street, Waltham, MA 02451. Title of the event: Virtual "Cafe Hakalah".
June 16, 2022. Birthday party in Carbon County, Pennsylvania
Mikhail and Elina played for about an hour during birthday party in Carbon County, Pennsylvania on Saturday, June 16th, 2022. Performance took place at a brand new private house. About 25 adults and ten kids attended the event. Артисты поздравили именинницу, попели, поиграли, повеселили гостей, пофотографировались с виновницей торжества и её родителями.
July 16, 2022. Niagara Falls, ONTARIO, Canada, Russian Adoption Reunion 2022
On Saturday, July 16th, 2022 musicians and dancers of ensemble Barynya - Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Alisa Egorova, Valentina Kvasova, Alexandr Rudoy - performed 30 minutes show for adoptees ages 8-21, and their families during Russian Adoption Reunion 2022 event that took place at the Sheraton Fallsview Hotel, 5875 Falls Ave, Niagara Falls, ONTARIO L2G 3K7, Canada. There were adoptees from Russia, Ukraine, Bulgaria, Kyrgyzstan and China. Totasl guests count: 250. The program included "Korobushka", "Kalinka", "Valenkee" ("Woolen Boots"), "Mardzhandzha", "Hopak", "Dark Eyes", "The Moon Is Shining Brightly" and "Bottle Dance" based on the "Fiddler On The Roof".
July 14, 2022. Public performance in Oak Park, Illinois
Musicians Nina, Mikhail and Elina performed from 5pm to 9pm in downtown Oak Park, Illinois during Thursday Night Out - downtown Oak Park’s popular dine-around summer series that run every Thursday between June 2nd to August 25th from 5 to 9pm. Downtown Oak Park restaurants offer a variety of drinks, appetizers, entrees and desserts on the Thursday Night Out menu and allow diners to eat inside or carry out. Tables are also set up outside for patrons to enjoy dining al fresco.
On Wednesday, July 13, 2022 at 6pm program "Boogie Woogie" started at the Staten Island Children’s Museum located in Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. Exact address: off, 1000 Richmond Terrace Building M Enter via the Fillmore St. Gate, Tysen St, 10301. Program performed by dancer Alisa Egorova, musician and singer Zhenya Rock and dancer Nataly Rock run for about 50 minutes to an hour with the dance workshop and questions and answers in the end.
July 1, 2022. Concert at the Just Home Adult Medical Care in East Brunswick, NJ
On Friday, July 1st, 2022 July 1, 2022 Mikhail Smirnov and Elina Karokhina performed one hour concert at the Just Home Adult Medical Care in East Brunswick, New Jersey for Russian speaking senior citizens. Program included Russian, Jewish, Gypsy, Ukrainian, American music and songs as well as some classical pieces.
June 29, 2022. Gorton High School, Yonkers, New York
On Wednesday, June 29, 2022 singers, musicians and dancers of the company provided 30 min show during international festival at the Gorton High School in Yonkers, New York. Cast of performers: musician Leonid Bruk, dancer Maija Rutkovsky, dancer Arsentii Oskin, singer Vera Bergman, musician Mikhail Smirnov, musician Elina Karokhina, dancer Alisa Egorova, dancer Alexey Klyuchnikov, dancer Maria Klyuchnikova.
June 26, 2022. The Seaside Park Community Arts Center, Coney Island Boardwalk, Brooklyn, New York
On Sunday, June 26th, 2022 singers, musicians and dancers provided 30 minutes show at the The Seaside Park Community Arts Center located on Coney Island Boardwalk in Brooklyn, New York. Exact address of the venue: Amphitheater At Coney Island Boardwalk 3052 West 21 Street Brooklyn NY 11224. The event was titled the "Cultural Celebration in Coney Island". Cast of performers: dancer Alisa Egorova, dancer Sergey Tsyganok, dancer Majia Rutkovsky, musicians Mikhail Smirnov, dancer Olga Chpitalnaia, singer Vera Bergman, singer Oleg Kolomyets, dancer Arsentii Oskin.
On Saturday, June 25, 2022 musicians and dancers of the company provided 90 min show Salute to Ukraine at the Untermyer Park and Gardens, 945 N Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701.
On Saturday, June 18, 2022 musicians and dancers of the company provided 60 min show during "Immigration Now" event at The College Point Cultural Center and Museum at the Poppenhusen Institute, 114-04 14th Road, College Point, Queens New York 11356. The program was titled "Tribute to Ukraine" - Dance and music from Eastern Europe. As per client's request dancers included audience participation at the end.
June 18, 2022. UNE 18TH NYC Multicultural Festival in Harlem
On Saturday, June 18th, 2022 two members of the company performed during the largest cultural diversity event in New York City - UNE 18TH NYC Multicultural Festival Harlem New York City. Mikhail and Elina performance started at 4:15pm on Stage I located on St. Nicholas Avenue near 141st Street. Sat, June 18, 2022 Nicholas Ave & 141st Street. Cast: singer, garmoshka and guitar player Mikhail Smirnov, balalaika player Elina Karokhina.
June 16, 2022. Abe Lebewohl Park Summer Concert Series in New York City
Musicians and dancers provided one hour show during Abe Lebewohl Park Summer Concert Series on Thursday, June 16, 2022 in New York City. Performance took place in front of St. Mark’s Church (corner of 10th St and 2nd Ave) in East Village neighborhood in Manhattan. Cast: dancer Alisa Egorova, singer and guitar player Sergey Pobedinskiy, balalaika player Elina Karokhina, singer Lyudmila Fesenko.
June 12, 2022. Birthday party at Ponte Vecchio restaurant, Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn, New York
Dancer Alisa Egorova, singer and musician Mikhail Smirnov, musicians Elina Karokhina and bizzare Gypsy Fortune Teller Costumer Character entertained guests during Russian birthday party at the Ponte Vecchio on Sunday, June 12th, 2022. Performance took place at the backyard of popular Italian restaurant in Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn, New York. About 25 guests attended the event. Артисты поздравили именинника, попели его любимые цыганские песни, сыграли цыганскую венгерку, повеселили гостей и пофотографировались с виновником торжества.
June 11, 2022. Birthday party in Morganville, New Jersey
Dancer Maija, singer Natasha, musicians Mikhail and Elina provided show during Birthday party in Morganville, New Jersey on Saturday, June 11th, 2022. Performance took place at the backyard of large private house. About 50 guests attended the event. Цыганский хор «АЙ НЭ-НЭ» Ляли Пшеничной из Бруклина в этот вечер был словно ЯРКИЙ ФЕЙЕРВЕРК! Артисты буквально взорвали вечеринку своим неожиданным появлением. Они подняли всем настроение на первой секунде, а цыганские песни и танцы зарядили задором так, что гостям было невозможно удержаться, и они бросились в пляс. Праздник получился незабываемо-ярким. Даже главная (но не единственная) именинница, которой, кстати, в тот день исполнилось 93 года, поднялась, чтобы потанцевать с родственниками и гостями.
June 5, 2022. 50th Wedding Anniversary in Alexandria, Virginia
Musicians, dancers and singers provided music and entertainment for six hours long 50th Wedding Anniversary event at one of the most desired, spacious, intimate, and unforgettable Potomac-Front wedding event venue in the National Capital Area. Cast of performers included Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Alisa Egorova (dancer), Elena Belova (singer), Leonid Bruk (contrabass balalaika), Yuriy Lemeshev (accordion), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals). 25 acres of gardens and woods overlooking the Potomac River. The party took place on Sunday, June 5th, 2022. Exact address of the venue: River Farm, 7931 E Boulevard Dr Alexandria Virginia 22308.
June 5, 2022. Astoria’s Multicultural Celebration Festival Dutch Kills Playground Long Island City, Queens, New York
Musicians and dancers provided exiting show during International Festival in Astoria, Queens on Saturday, June 5th, 2022. Exact address: Dutch Kills Playground 36th Avenue & Crescent Street, Long Island City, NY 11106. Performance started at 4pm. Cast: dancer Vladimir Nikitin, dancer Alisa Egorova, singer and accordion player Mikhail Smirnov, musician Elina Karokhina, dancer Masha Klyuchnikova, dancer Valentina Kvasova, dancer Arsentiy Oskin, dancer Konstantin Tulinov.
June 3, 2022. Multicultural Festival at the Kings Highway Academy (Public School 197) in Brooklyn, NY
Dancers and musicians performed several shows during multicultural festival at the Public School 197 in Brooklyn on Friday, June 3rd, 2022. Event took place at The Kings Highway Academy located at 1599 East 22nd Street, Brooklyn, New York 11210. Cast: dancer Vladimir Nikitin, dancer Alisa Egorova, dancer Masha Klyuchnikova, dancer Olga Yeliseeva, dancer Arsentiy Oskin, dancer Sergey Tsyganok, dancer Veronika Gunko, musician Leonid Bruk, musician Elina Karokhina.
May 20, 2022. Fundraising Event in Rock Tavern, New York
Three dancers, two singers, and musician performed during Fundraiser event at private house located at 347 Bull Road, Rock Tavern, NY 12575 on Friday, May 20, 2022. Rock Tavern is located in NY Orange County (Southeastern part of New York State).
May 8, 2022. Free public performance at the East Brunswick Public Library, East Brunswick, New Jersey
Sunday, May 8, 2022, 2:00pm. 90 min performance at the East Brunswick Public Library, 2 Jean Walling Civic Center, East Brunswick NJ 08816. Cast: singer Ludmila Fesenko, singer/musician Sergey Pobedinski, dancer Olga Chpitalnaia, dancer Vladimir Nikitin, dancer Alisa Egorova, musician Elina Karokhina.
April 23, 2022. Velykden Fundraiser in New York City
Musicians and dancers provided entertainment during The Velykden Fundraiser in New York City on Saturday, April 23, 2022. Showtime started at 2pm. Cast: dancer Alisa Egorova, singer Oleg Kolomyits, musician Igal Balaban, dancer Sergiy Tsiganok, musician Elina Karokhina.
April 14, 2022, Festival of Nations at the Chattanooga State Community College, Chattanooga, Tennessee
Dancers and musicians provided one hour performance during International Festival Of All Nations at the Chattanooga State Community College in Chattanooga, Tennessee on Thursday, April 14th, 2022 from 10am to 1:30pm. Exact address of the venue: Chattanooga State Community College, 4501 Amnicola Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37406.
April 14, 2022, International Festival at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey
Dancers and singers Alexander Rudoy, Vladimir Nikitin, Nika Hunko, Olga Chpitalnaia, Valentina Kvasova performed during Multicultural International Festival on Thursday, April 14th, 2022 at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) CTR Campus Center Atrium, 150 Bleeker Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102.
April 13, 2022, Public performances at the Northeast State Community College, Blountville, Tennessee
Two separate performances during Fun Around the World international event at the Northeast State Community College in Blountville, Tennessee on Wednesday, April 13th, 2022 (12pm and 7pm). Both performances took place in the same location - the Auditorium on the Blountville Campus (2nd Floor Student Services Building). During both programs the auditorium was packed with students and adults. Students participated in dance workshop in the the end of both performances.
April 9, 2022, Norfolk Public Library, Norfolk Historic District, Connecticut
One hour show with Nadiya Dance school dancers of New Jersey at a beautiful Great Hall with wooden floors and a cathedral ceiling of the Norfolk Library located at 9 Greenwoods Rd E., Norfolk Historic District, CT 06058.
April 6, 2022, International Festival at the Clarion University in Clarion, Pennsylvania
3 dancers and 1 musician performed one hour show on the campus of the Clarion University in Clarion, Pennsylvania on Wednesday, April 6th, 2022 during Celebration of Nations Cultural Night 2022 event. Exact address of the venue: Clarion University, 840 Wood Street, Clarion, PA 16214.
March 5, 2022. Birthday Party at the Baku Palace in Brooklyn, NY
Цыганская группа под руководством певицы Ирины "шумною толпою" поздравила с юбилеем Милу во время её дня рождения в бруклинском ресторане "БАКУ ПАЛАС". Выступление длилось примерно 45 минут. Гости и сама именниница с супругом с большим удовольствием сами приняли участие в танцах и веселье. 65th Birthday Party of Mila at the restaurant Baku Palace in Brooklyn, New York on Saturday, March 5th, 2022. Cast of performers: Irina Fogelson (singer, dancer), dancer Yelena, violinist virtuoso Gennady, balalaika player Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals, garmoshka). Company presented most popular Russian Gypsy songs, dances, and music.
March 3, 2022. World Gala in Naples, Florida (Club at Mediterra)
Six dancers and two musicians of the company performed one hour concert on Thursday, March 3, 2022 during World Piece Gala in Naples, Florida at the Club at Mediterra. Performance was dedicated to the World Piece.
November 7th, 2021 Free public concert at the Wickenburg Community Center, Wickensburg, Arizona
On Sunday, November 7th, 2021 at 2pm musicians and dancers of ensemble Barynya performed 90 min concert in Wickensburg, Arizona. Free public performance took place at the Wickenburg Community Center (exact address: 160 N. Valentine, Wickenburg, Arizona 85390). Dancers: Pavel Getman, Viktoriia Lazareva. Musicians: Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals). The program of concert included Russian dances, music and songs.
10-07-2021, St. George Pathfinders Ball, Old Tappan Manor, Old Tappan, New Jersey
On Friday, October 8th, 2021 from 8 to 11:30pm musicians of the New York Barynya Balalaika Orchestra played at the St. George Pathfinders Ball, на ежегодном осеннем благотворительном балу организации ОРЮР (Организация Российских Юных Разведчиков) at the Old Tappan Manor, 137 Orangeburgh Rd, Old Tappan, New Jersey. Musicians: Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), singer Vera Bergman, Alexandra Mogilevich (drums), Igor Balaban (keyboard, saxophone).
June 5th, 2021. Gypsy Night at the Anyway Cafe in New York City
Russian Gypsy singer Natasha Stolichnaya and NYC Gypsy Band performed for 3 hours at the Anyway Cafe in New York City on Saturday, June 5th, 2021 (8 to 11pm). Cast of performers: Natasha Stolichnaya, Frida Anuarbek (keyboard, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika virtuoso), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals, garmoshka). Repertoire: Russian Gypsy songs and music, popular Russian songs, classical music, international hit songs.
05-02-2021. Frozen Princess Themed Girl Birthday Party with Elsa
Elsa amd Olaf provided one hour entertainment during girl's birthday party at the park in Secausus, New Jersey on May 2nd, 2021. Frozen Princess was the most favorite character of the Birthday girl at the time. She was so happy to see Elsa at her party. Elsa amd Olaf are both a fictional characters from Disney's "Frozen" franchise, produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios.
11-11-2020. Virtual showcase for the Southeastern Wisconsin Library Youth Services
On Wednesday, November 11th, 2020 Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Alisa Egorova, Vladimir Nikitin performed a virtual performance-showcase for Southeastern Wisconsin Library Youth Services. 10 min demonstation included Russian folk dance Kalinka, Russian dance Metelitsa, Ukrainian dance Pidmanula and other selections. SEWI Youth Services Performers’ Showcase 2020 happened online via Zoom Webinar. Library staffs from Arrowhead, Bridges, Kenosha County, Lakeshores, Milwaukee County and Monarch Library Systems registered at no cost. This program was sponsored by the Southeastern Wisconsin public library systems: Arrowhead Library System, Bridges Library System, Kenosha County Library System, Lakeshores Library System, Milwaukee County Federated Library System and Monarch Library System.
November 5th, 2020. Virtual performances at the Evergreen Elementary School, San Jose, California
On Thursday, November 5th, 2020 dancers and musicians of Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya presented two virtual performances for the students of the Evergreen Elementary School, San Jose, California. Exact address of the school: 3010 Fowler Rd, San Jose, CA 95135. Forty five min program of each assembly included introduction to Russian language, culture, Russian, Cossack, Ukrainian, Jewish and Gypsy Roma traditional dancing, music, songs, and virtuoso performances on instruments including the balalaika, garmoshka (Russian folk button accordion) and balalaika contrabass. Cast of performers: dancer Konstantin Tulinov, Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), dancer Elena Notkina, dancer Alexander Rudoy, dancer Katsiaryna Mileuskaya,
dancer Zheniya Berdzinishvili, dancer Vladimir Nikitin, dancer Sergey Tsyganok, dancer Veronika Hunko, dancer Valentina Kvasova, dancer Maryia Zhukovich,
dancer Olga Chpitalnaia, dancer Anna Brovkina, dancer Katerina Brovkina, dancer Irina Kl, dancer Ilia Pankratov, dancer Danila Sherstobitov, and dancer Aliaksandr Anatska.
October 31st, 2020. Gypsy Halloween in New York City
Singer Irina, dancer Alisa, musicians Elina and Mikhail were a big hit during Gypsy Halloween 2020 New York City private event in Chelsey neighborhood of Manhattan on October 31st, 2020. The prorgram included songs, dances, and music. Цыганская вечеринка в стиле Хэллоуин в Челси, колоритном районе на северо-западе нижнего Манхэттена, прошла на редкость удачно и весело. Нарядные гости не только подпевали любимым цыганским песням и мелодиям, но даже и танцевали (в том числи и на столе).
October 24, 2020, Russian Themed Birthday Party, Chinar On The Island, Staten Island, New York, dancers, musicians, singers, MC, Tamada,
On Saturday, October 24th, 2020 five members of ensemble Barynya - Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, vocals, guitar), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Alisa (dancer), Konstantin Tulinov (dancer), and Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass) - provided entertainment during Russian themed Surprice Birthday Party at the Chinar On The Island, 283 Sand Ln, Staten Island, NY 10305. The company met the Guest of Honor Сергей Владимирович at the door with Bread and Salt ceremony followed by CHAROCHKI (величальная для именинника) dressed in traditional costumes with live music, and the Russian Bear. When guests were seated inside dancers and musicians provided a program with musicians playing the balalaika, garmoshka, balalaika contrabass, singing popular Russian songs, dancers performing several dance selections including Russian, Ukrainian, Gypsy, Jewish, Tatar with multiple costume changes. Artistic director of ensemble Barynya Mikhail Smirnov took care of Tamada/MC entertainment introducing toasts, and doing couple of games and trivia with guests, Guest of Honor and his wife.
September 12, 2020. Birthday party in Brooklyn, New York
Two musicians (Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov) and dancer Alisa Egorova performed during Birthday party in Brooklyn, New York on September 12th, 2020. The presentation included songs, dances, and music (Shatritsa, Tsyganskaia Velichal'naia, Vykradu, Mokhnatyi Shmel', Kak Tsvetok Dushistyi, Dark Eyes, Two Guitars, and other selections).
September 11, 2020. Recording of ensemble Barynya promo-video. Kings Bay YM-YWHA, Brooklyn, New York
On Friday, September 11th, 2020 dancers, singers and musicians of Barynya, Russian dance, song and music ensemble had a rehersal and session of video recording at the Kings Bay YM-YWHA - a Jewish community center and proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York - located at 3495 Nostrand Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11229. Cast of Barynya on that day included
Simona Zhukovsky (dancer),
Valentina Kvasova (dancer, vocals),
Olga Chpitalnaia (dancer),
Olga Yeliseyeva (dancer),
Alexander Rudoy (dancer),
Vladimir Nikitin (dancer),
Konstantin Tulinov (dancer),
Danila Sherstobitov (dancer),
Leonid Bruk (contrabass-balalaika),
Elina Karokhina (balalaika),
Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), and singer
Irina Zagornova. Company recorded one song performed by Irina Zagornova and several dance routines: "Barynya", "Kalinka", Cossack dance, Moldavian dance, "Metelitsa", Tatar dance, Gypsy dance and Jewish Bottle dance.
August 22, 2020. Public concert at the Untermyer Park in Yonkers, New York
Russian-Gypsy singer Natasha Stolichnaya and Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya first public performance after the beginning of the pandemic of COVID-19 took place on Saturday, August 22nd, 2020 at the Untermyer Park in Yonkers, New York (945 N Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701). Cast of performers included Mikhail Smirnov (artistic director, founder, garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika virtuoso), Leonid Bruk (balalaika contrabass), Konstantin Tulinov (dancer), Vladimir Nikitin (dancer), Valentina Kvasova (dancer, vocals), Russian-Gypsy singer Natasha Stolichnaya, Frida Anuarbek (keyboard, vocals), Maryia Zhukovich (dancer), Katsiaryna Mileuskaya, and Veronika Hunko.
March 15, 2020. 60th Birthday party at the Encore Restaurant in Brooklyn, New York
On March 15th, 2020 around 7pm dancers, singers, and musicians of New York based Russian Gypsy ensemble Moscow Gypsy Army provided one hour show during private 60th Birthday party in Bay Ridge neighborhood of Brooklyn. Exact address of the venue: Restaurant Encore, 10007 4th Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11209. The party took place just a few days before the Covid-19 lockdown. It was one of the last parties before all crazy events occured. All guests and waiters were talking about upcoming lockdown, lack of masks, and related issues. Musicians and dancers did their best to take everybody's thoughts off the scary subjests. Performance was about 45 min long.
02-08, 2020. An evening of Gypsy songs and music at the Anyway Cafe in New York City
On Saturday, February 8th, 2020 Cafe Anyway in New York City hosted an event called "Manhattan Gypsy Nights". From 8pm to 12 midnight Vasily Yankovic, Elina Karokhina and Mikhail Smirnov performed an array of Gypsy Roma songs and music in colorfull East Village neighborhood of Manhatten. Exact address of the venue: Anyway Cafe NYC, 34 E 2nd St, New York, NY 10003.
02-07-2020, 55th Petroushka Ball, The Plaza Hotel NYC, Russian Children's Welfare Society
Barynya Balalaika Orchestra led by Mikhail Smirnov provided live music entertainment for 55th Annual Petroushka Ball at the historical Plaza Hotel {768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019} on Friday, February 7th, 2020. Petroushka Ball (Russian: Бал Петрушка) is a traditional Russian ball held annually in New York City at the Plaza Hotel in the beginning of February. It is the primary fundraising event for the Russian Children's Welfare Society, organization which is dedicated to assisting disadvantaged Russian children, to improve their health, education, and social welfare. First Petroushka Ball took place in 1965 as a small Tea Dance by a group of descendants of Russian families whose intent was to raise funds to help Russian children. Since then, the Petroushka Ball has become one of New York Society's most vibrant and anticipated annual events, attracting upwards of 700 dinner and dancing guests. Cast of ensemble Barynya musicians and singers in 2020 included: Mikhail Smirnov (band leader, guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Yaroslav Bell (violin), singer Irina Zagornova, Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Igor Lutsev (drums), and Vlad Barskiy (keyboard).
January 23, 2020. "From Russians With Love", Concert with Charleston Symphony Orchestra, Gaillard Center, Charleston, SC
On Thursday, January 23rd, 2020 Elina Karokhina, and Mikhail Smirnov performed joined concert titled "FROM RUSSIANS WITH LOVE" with Charleston Symphony Orchestra led by conductor Yuriy Bekker. Program of performance: Dmitri Shostakovich Festive Overture, Op. 96, Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky “ Polonaise ” from Eugene Onegin, Sergei Rachmaninoff's Vocalise, Modest Mussorgsky, (arr. Nikolai Rimsky - Korsakov) Night on Bald Mountain, Stravinsky's Firebird Infernal Dance Berceuse Finale, Aram Khachaturian's “Sabre Dance“ from Gayane, Nikolai Rimsky - Korsakov “Flight of the Bumble Bee” from Tale of Tsar Saltan, Russian Folk Song "Oche Chiornie" (Dark Eyes), arr. Carmen Dragon, Lionel Bart, arr. John Bachalis “ From Russia With Love “ from James Bond: From Russia With Love, Maurice Jarre, arr. Bill Holcombe “Laura’s Theme” from Dr. Zhivago, Russian Folk Song "Kalinka", Russian Folk Song "Kamarinskaiya", Russian Folk Song "Valenki", Russian Folk Song "Korobushka", Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky “Finale” from Symphony No . 4 in F minor, Op. 36. All instrumental numbers were performed by Elina and MIkhail on guitar, and the traditional Russian instruments balalaika and garmoshka. After the performance conductor Yuriy Bekker, tenor Edward Brennan, Mikhail and Elina stepped into the lobby of the beautuful Charleston Gaillard Center to sign concert posters and take photos with people who attended the performance. Exact address of the venue: 95 Calhoun Street, Charleston, SC 29401
January 21, 2020. Fayetteville Technical Community College, Fayetteville, North Carolina
On Tuesday, January 21st, 2020, two dancers and two musicians of Russian dance, song and music ensemble Barynya proided dance and music workshop with questions and answers from 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, and formal performance from 12:00PM to 1PM at the Cumberland Hall Auditorium on Fayetteville campus Fayetteville Technical Community College, 2201 Hull Road, Fayetteville, NC 28303. Students learn facts about Russia, and asked questions about Russian Culture and e njoy traditional Russian folk dances, music, and songs performed on garmoshka, and balalaika. Cast of performers: dancer Alisa Egorova, singer Mikhail Smirnov, balalaika player Elina Karokhina, and dancer Sergey Tsyganok.
October 2019, Emirates-Russian Week, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates,
Musicians of Barynya ensemble provided several thirty minute performances during Emirates-Russian Week at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
September 14, 2019. Ann Arbor Russian Festival, St. Vladimir Orthodox Church, Dexter, Michigan
Dancers, singers, and musicians of Barynya ensemble provided several performances during 7th Annual Ann Arbor Russian Festival 2019 that was taking place on the gounds of St. Vladimir Orthodox Church in Dexter, Michigan on Saturday, September 14th and Sunday, September 15th, 2019. Cast: Alisa Egorova (dancer), Serhiy Tsyganok (dancer), Konstantin Tulinov (dancer), Simona Zhukovski (dancer), balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina, Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Mikhail Smirnov (artistic director).
August 31st, 2019, Faith Food & Fellowship Festival, Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, E.Meadow, Long Island
On Saturday, August 31st, 2019 ensemble Barynya (Leonid Bruk, Alisa Egorova, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov) provided three hours performance during Faith Food and Fellowship Festival-2019 at the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in East Meadow, Long Island from 12 to 3pm. The program of performance included Russian, Ukrainian, Cossack, Moldavian, Tatar, Jewish and Gypsy folk songs, music and dancing.
August 24, 2019. 60th birthday party, Chinar Restaurant, Staten Island, New York
Musicians, singers, and dancers of Moscow Gypsy Army performed one hour show during Russian 60th birthday party on Saturday, August 24th, 2019, 8pm at the Chinar On The Island Restaurant. Cast of performers included singer/7 string guitar player Vasiliy, singer / 6 string guitar player Mikhail, singer/dancer Valentina. Program of the performance included "Kai One", "2 guitars" ("Две гитары"), "Shatritsa", "Joseph-Joseph", "Vengerka", "Mato", "Mardjandja", "Dark Eyes" ("Очи чёрные"), "Long Road" ("Дорогой длинною"), "За дружеской беседою", "Эй, ямщик, гони-ка к Яру", "Мохнатый шмель", "Цыганская фантазия" (инструментальный номер), "Не будите", "Нанэ Цоха", "Чардаш" (инструментальный номер), "Бирюзовые златы колечки", "Как цветок душистый" (цыганская величальная), "Только раз" (романс), "Пропил Мишка", "Что мне горе", "Gypsy Medley" (Попурри), "Сердце на снегу", "Мы на лодочке катались", and other Gypsy Roma (Romani), songs, music, and dances. The company also presented several Russian, Ukrainian, and Moldovian songs, as well as some classical music, and internationally known hits.
July 20, 2019. International Society's 100 Year Anniversary Party in Howell, Michigan
Dancers and musicians of Barynya ensemble provided one hour concert that included Russian, Cossack, Ukrainian, Tatar, Russian Gypsy Roma, Moldavian, Jewish Bottle Dancers, live performances on Balalaika and Garmoshka during International Society's 100 Year Anniversary party in Howell, Michigan. Ensemble Barynya cast included Alisa Egorova (dancer), Serhiy Tsyganok (dancer), Konstantin Tulinov (dancer), Maxim Al Names (dancer), balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina, and Russian ethnomusicologist, folk singer, garmoshka (Russian folk button accordion) player Mikhail Smirnov who led the performance by giving a short explanation of every number of the program in English.
March 9, 2019, Lone Tree Arts Center, Lone Tree, Colorado
Russian dancers, singers and musicians of ensemble Barynya performed 90 min concert at the Lone Tree Arts Center in Lone Tree, Colorado on Saturday, March 9th, 2019. Cast of Barynya ensemble included dancers
Alexander Rudoy,
Konstantin Tulinov,
Vladimir Nikitin,
Olga Chpitalnaia,
Katia Brovkina, Valentina Kvasova,
Alisa Egorova, and musicians Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass),
Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals). Dancers performed Moldavian dance, Sailors' dance, Barynya, Kalinka, Hopak, Danila Cooper, Jewish wedding dances (Bottle dance, Candle dance), Siberian, Gypsy, Cossack, and other selections. Exact address of the venue: Lone Tree Arts Center, 10075 Commons Street, Lone Tree CO 80124.
Ensemble Barynya, Colorado, Russian dancers, Lone Tree Arts Center, Alexander Rudoy, Konstantin Tulinov, Vladimir Nikitin, Olga Chpitalnaia, Katia Brovkina, Valentina Kvasova, Alisa Egorova, Leonid Bruk, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov
February 16, 2019, Wedding at the Rockwood Park Carriage House, Wilmington, Delaware
Performance of traditional Moldovan dance during wedding reception at the Rockwood Park Carriage House in Wilmington, Delaware on Saturday, February 16th, 2019. Cast of dancers included Vladimir Nikitin, Valentina Kvasova, Konstantin Tulinov, and Olga Chpitalnaia. Dancers performed Russian folk dance "Kalinka", two Jewish wedding dance routines (Bottle dance, Candle dance), and traditional dance from Moldova (an Eastern European country and former Soviet republic). Exact address of the venue: Rockwood Park Carriage House, 4671 Washington Street Extension, Wilmington, DE 19809.
02-08-2019, 54th Petroushka Ball, Russian Children's Welfare Society, The Plaza Hotel New York City
Dancers of ensemble Barynya and Barynya Balalaika Orchestra provided live music and dance show during 54th Annual Petroushka Ball at the Plaza Hotel {768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019} on Friday, February 8th, 2019. Petroushka Ball (Russian: Бал Петрушка) is a traditional Russian ball held annually in New York City at the Plaza Hotel in the beginning of February. It is the primary fundraising event for the Russian Children's Welfare Society, organization which is dedicated to assisting disadvantaged Russian children, to improve their health, education, and social welfare. First Petroushka Ball took place in 1965 as a small Tea Dance by a group of descendants of Russian families whose intent was to raise funds to help Russian children. Since then, the Petroushka Ball has become one of New York Society's most vibrant and anticipated annual events, attracting upwards of 700 dinner and dancing guests. Cast of ensemble Barynya's dancers, musicians, and singers in 2019 included: Olga Chpitalnaia (dancer), Simona Zhukovski (dancer), Valentina Kvasova (dancer), Danila Sherstobitov (dancer), Vladimir Nikitin (dancer), Konstantin Tulinov (dancer), Mikhail Smirnov (band leader, guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Yaroslav Bell (violin), singer Irina Zagornova, Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Igor Lutsev (drums), and Vlad Barskiy (keyboard).
11-11-2018, Private 50th Birthday party at the restaurant Mari Vanna, New York City
Birthday Party at Russian restaurant Mari Vanna (41 East 20th Street, New York, NY 10003) took place on Sunday, November 11th, 2018. Для гостей плясал медведь, без устали играли скрипка, балалайка, балалайка-контрабас, баян, гармошка, пели цыгане. Cast: Leonid Bruk (balalaika contrabass), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), dancer Alisa Egorova, Andrei Solodenko (accordion), Sasha Tseyitlin (violin). Show included arrival of huge costume character mascot - Russian Bear - to dance and take photos with guests. Musicians played a mix of up-beat Russian and Gypsy songs. На дне рождения также выступал специально прибывший из Москвы солист популярной группы «Иванушки International» Андрей Григорьев-Аполлонов.
October 25, 2018. Renowned Russian ensemble to perform at Penn State New Kensington, Article by MADASYN CZEBINIAK, The Tribune-Review, Thursday, Oct. 25, 2018
October 13, 2018, Freeport High School, Freeport, NY
On Saturday, October 13th, 2018 Russian dance, song and dance ensemble Barynya (Vladimir Nikitin, Irina Zagornova, Leonid Bruk, Valentina Kvasova, Alexander Rudoy, Simona Zhukovski, Serhiy Tsyganok, Irina Biryukova, Konstantin Tulinov, Olga Yeliseyeva, Olga Chpitalnaia, Ilia Pankratov, Alisa Egorova, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov) provided 90 min performance sponsored by Freeport Community Concert Association (FCCA) at the Freeport High School, 50 S Brookside Ave, Freeport, NY 11520.
April 29, 2018. Steinway Street Fair International Cultural Festival, Astoria, Queens
Sunday, April 29th, 2018 during performance of ensemble Barynya at the Steinway Street Fair International Cultural Festival on Steinway Street (between Broadway & 31st Avenue) in Astoria, Queens. Dancers: Vladimir Nikitin, Konstantin Tulinov, Serhiy Tsyganok, Dinara Subaeva, Alisa Egorova. Musicians: Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (contrabass balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, vocals), Gypsy Boulevard Vasily Romani (singer, 7 string Russian guitar).
Steinway Street Fair International Cultural Festival in Astoria, Queens
April 17, 2018. Darien High School, Darien, CT
Russian music, dance and song ensemble "Barynya" provided Russian folk song and dance workshop and formal 90 min performance on Tuesday, April 17th 2018 at the Darien High School, 80 High School Lane, Darien CT 06820. Folk songs and dance master class with high school and middle school students started at 5pm. Performance started at 7pm. Cast of Barynya performers: Vladimir Nilitin, Konstantin Tulinov, Serhiy Tsyganok, Simona Zhukovski, Olga Chpitalnaia, Dinara Subaeva, Leonid Bruk, Alisa Egorova, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov. Program of performance: Russian folk song and dance KALINKA (The Snowball Tree), Russian song and dance METELITSA (The Snowstorm), Sibirian Nanai dance (НАНАЕЦ), BARYNYA, PIDMANULA, KAMARINSKAIA, TATARSKIY, contrabass-balalaika solo, Jewish Candle dance, Andgry Husband (КАК ЗАСТАВИЛ МЕНЯ МУЖ), Jewish Bottle dance (БУТЫЛКИ), Peddlers (КОРОБУШКА), Cossack dance (КАЗАЧИЙ ТАНЕЦ ВАРЕНЬКА), Russian Tongue-Twisters (СКОРОГОВОРКИ), Sailors dance (ЯБЛОЧКО), Ukrainian National Dance "Hopak" (ГОПАК), Dark Eyes (ОЧИ ЧЕРНЫЕ), Russian Gypsy Romani dance Mardzhandzha (ЦЫГАНСКИЙ ТАНЕЦ МАРДЖАНДЖА), Waltz Durane (ДЮРАН), and other selections.
02-09-2018, Petroushka Ball, Russian Children's Welfare Society, Plaza Hotel NYC, New York
Annual Petroushka Ball took place at the landmark Plaza Hotel {768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019} on Friday, February 9th, 2018. Petroushka Ball (Russian: Бал Петрушка) is a traditional Russian ball held annually in New York City at the Plaza Hotel in the beginning of February. Cast of ensemble Barynya musicians and singers included: Mikhail Smirnov (band leader, guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Yaroslav Bell (violin), singer Irina Zagornova, Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Igor Lutsev (drums), and Vlad Barskiy (keyboard).
Billions, the Showtime series at restaurant Tatiana on Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, New York
Musicians of ensemble Barynya - balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina, contrabass balalaika player Leonid Bruk, and guitar player Alex Efeemenko at the filming of the scene of Billions (ep. 309, 310), the Showtime series at the Russian restaurant Tatiana on Brighton Beach in Brooklyn, New York on Monday, February 5th 2018. In that episode John Malkovich was playing a role of a murderous Russian oil oligarch named Grigor Andalov. The musicians of Barynya ensemble played a role of Russian musicians.
click images above to see more photos
January 13th, 2018, APAP (Association of Performing Arts Professionals) showcase New York City
Saturday, January 13th, 2018, 8:40pm. APAP (Association of Performing Arts Professionals) showcase NYC. New York Hilton Towers, Regent Parlor, 2nd Floor, 6th Ave., Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY. Music, song and dance performance during Association of Performing Arts Presenters (APAP) annual booking conference at the Hilton Hotel NYC (at 54th Street), 1335 Avenue of the Americas, New York City, New York, USA.
University Of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, October 2017
Russian festival, New Russia Cultural Center, Rensselaer, NY
Ensemble Barynya (from left to right) Andrei Kisselev, Elina Karokhina, Yana Volkova, Alisa Egorova, Aleena Kisselev, Mikhail Smirnov, New Russia Cultural Center, Rensselaer, New York click image above to see more photos from New Russia Cultural Center in Rensselaer, New York
02-10-2017, 52nd Petroushka Ball, Russian Children's Welfare Society, Plaza Hotel New York City
Musicians of the Barynya Balalaika Orchestra provided live music entertainment for 52nd Petroushka Ball that took place at the New York City's landmark Plaza Hotel located on the corner of 58th Street and 5th Avenue {exact address: 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019} on Friday, February 10th, 2017.
11-14-2016, Opening Night Party of "Natasha, Pierre, and The Great Comet of 1812", Plaza Hotel NYC
On Monday, November 14th, 2016 six-piece Band played at the Plaza Hotel NYC during the Opening Night Party of "Natasha, Pierre, and The Great Comet of 1812" starring Josh Groban. Cast: Leonid Bruk, Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Sergeiy Pobedeenski, Val Zhmood, Andreiy Solodenko.
Nikolai Massenkoff and ensemble Barynya Illinois and Missouri tour 2016
Russian folk singer Nikolai Massenkoff and ensemble Barynya were doing a short concert tour in Illinois and Missouri in October 2016. Concerts took place on Tuesday, October 25, 2016, 11am at FREEDOM HALL, 410 LAKEWOOD BOULEVARD, PARK FOREST, Illinois 60466, on Monday, October 24, 2016, 9:30am at Brubeck Arts Center on Campus of Wabash Valley College, 2200 COLLEGE DRIVE, MOUNT CARMEL, Illinois 62863, on Sunday, October 23, 2016, 1:30pm. Brubeck Arts Center on Campus of Wabash Valley College, 2200 COLLEGE DRIVE, MOUNT CARMEL, Illinois 62863, on Saturday, October 22, 2016, 6pm at BELLE STARR THEATER, 112 E. BOONSLICK ROAD, WARRENTON, MISSOURI 63383. Cast of performers included soloist, star, singer inger Nikolai Massenkoff, Leonid Bruk (contrabass-balalaika), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Vladimir Nikitin (dancer), Simona Zhukovsky (dancer).
Barynya concert on June 25, 2016, 6pm. Southampton Cultural Center
Saturday, June 25, 2016. 6–7PM without intermission. 60 minute performance with 6 dancers and 3 musicians at the Southampton Cultural Center, 25 Pond Ln, Southampton, NY 11968. www.scc-arts.org. Cast:
Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), dancers: Ilia Pankratov, Alexander Rudoy, Vladimir Nikitin, Anna Brovkina, Katya Brovkina, Olga Chpitalnaia
PROGRAM:
01. “BARYNYA”, RUSSIAN FOLK DANCE
02. “DR. ZHIVAGO”, INSTRUMENTAL
03. “THE SNOWSTORM”, SIBERIAN TRADITIONAL DANCE
04. “SKOROGOVORKEE”, RUSSIAN TONGUE TWISTERS
05. “NANAETS”, SIBERIAN SUMO FIGHTING DANCE
06. “DANILA KOOPER”, DANCE OF RUSSIAN NOBILITY
07. “KOROBUSHKA”, RUSSIAN FOLK SONG
08. «MARDZHNDZHA», GYPSY-ROMANI DANCE
09. WALTZ “BABOCHKA”, INSTRUMENTAL
10. “HOPAK”, UKRAINIAN NATIONAL DANCE
11. “THE MOON IS SHINING BRIGHTLY”, TRADITIONAL
12. “EVREISKAIYA SVAD'BA”, RUSSIAN-JEWISH WEDDING DANCE
13. BALALAIKA MEDLEY, INSTRUMENTAL
14. VARENKA, SONG AND DANCE OF COSSACKS
15. CHARDASH, INSTRUMENTAL
16. KALINKA, RUSSIAN FOLK DANCE
Elina Karokhina at the Carnegie Hall in New York City, May 2016
Musical director of Barynya ensemble, balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina performed six concerts at the Carnegie Hall in New York City on May 23rd, 24th, and 27th, 2016 as a soloist of "The Orchestra Rocks" production. Carnegie Hall's Weill Music Institute brought together thousands of New York City students and teachers for annual "Link Up" concerts, featuring the Orchestra of St. Luke's, choir and three opera singers.
02-05-2016, 51st Petroushka Ball, Plaza Hotel New York City
Barynya Balalaika Orchestra and Gypsy Band played during 51st Petroushka Ball at the Plaza Hotel in New York City on Friday, February 05, 2016. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov (band leader, guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Yaroslav Bell (violin), singer Irina Zagornova, Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Igor Lutsev (drums), Vlad Barskiy (keyboard).
02-06-2015, 50th Petroushka Ball, Plaza Hotel New York City
On Friday, February 06, 2015 Mikhail Smirnov (vocals, garmoshka, guitar), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Irina Petrik (singer), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Sasha Ratmanski (keyboard), Igor Lutsev (drums), Sergey Gurbeloshvili (sax), Yaroslav Bell (violin) played during the Petroushka Ball 2015 at The Plaza Hotel, 768 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10019.
On January 14, 2015 musical director and balalaika virtuoso Elina Karokhina was selected to performed the balalaika part with Mariinsky Theatre from St. Petersburg, Russia in Rodion Shchedrin's opera "The Enchanted Wanderer" at the BAM - Howard Gilman Opera House in Brooklyn, New York. Some photos and video from Shchedrin’s rarely staged musical treasure, based on the story by Nikolai Leskov are available on Barynya website
January 2015, restaurant Romanoff, Brooklyn, New York
Photo by Dmitriy Moryak, Creative Director, City AD Group, www.CityAdGroup.com
Photo by Dmitriy Moryak, Creative Director, City AD Group, www.CityAdGroup.com
11-19-2014, National Geographic Building, Washington, D.C., Event honoring Karen Shakhnzazrov
The American-Russian Cultural Cooperation Foundation (ARCCF) and American University’s Initiative for Russian Culture (IRC) co-hosted the memorable black-tie Russian Gala event honoring Karen Shakhnzazrov (the Chairman of the Board of Mosfilm) took place at the National Geographic Building in Washington, DC on November 19, 2014. Gala Chair Susan Carmel Lehrman created a Mosfilm inspired movie set as the backdrop for the evening, which featured Russian music, dance and song ensemble Barynya (Danila Sherstobitov, Alexander Rudoy, Alex Anatska, Andrei Kisselev, Yana Volkova, Anna Zinenko, Anna Brovkina, Olga Yeliseyeva, Leonid Bruk, Elina Karokhina, Andrei Saveliev, Gennady Gutkin, Michael Seropyan, Jack Sheynin, Sasha Ratmansky, Irina Zagornova, Alexander Menshikov).
Performance with Russian singer Nikolai Massenkoff at the Graceland University's Shaw Center, Shaw Family Auditorium, Lamoni Campus, 1 University Place, Lamoni, IA 50140 on Friday, April 04, 2014. ALL PHOTOS and VIDEO from Lamoni, Iowa
One week school resedency in Bristol, Maine, May 11-15, 2014.
Two dancers and two musicians of ensemble "Barynya": Valentina Kvasova, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina and Olga Chpitalnaia were teaching kids Russian dance, music and culture at the Bristol Consolidated School in Bristol, Maine. In the end of the week kids were able to perform a concert of Russian dance for the local community. All photos and videos from Bristol, Maine.
02-07-2014, 49th Petroushka Ball, Russian Children's Welfare Society Ball, Plaza Hotel, NYC, New York
Russian dance, song and music ensemble Barynya provided live music entertainment for the Annual Petroushka Ball, a traditional Russian ball held annually in New York City. Petroushka Ball-2014 took place at The Plaza, 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019 on Friday, February 7th, 2014. Ensemble Barynya cast included: Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Sergey Riabtsev (violin), singer Alexander Menshikov, Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Igor Lutsev (drums), Vlad Barskiy (keyboard). Dancers Valentina Kvasova and Olga Chpitalnaia.
Peabody Essex Museum (PEM), exhibition "Faberge Revealed", Salem, Massachusetts, July 2013.
Photo from concert of "Barynya" ensemble at the Peabody Essex Museum (PEM) during exhibition "Faberge Revealed" in Salem, Massachusetts, July 2013. Barynya cast: Leonid Bruk, Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Anna Brovkina, Aliaksandr Anatska, Alexander Rudoy. All photos made by Shawn Fitzgerald Photography are available on Barynya website.
03-21-2013, School assembly at the Maugham Elementary School in Tenalfy, New Jersey
On Thursday, March 21st, 2013 at 9:30am singer Alexander Menshikov, dancer Alexander Rudoy and dancer Olga Chpitalnaia performed 45 min school assembly show at the Maugham Elementary School in Tenalfy, New Jersey (Maugham Elementary School, 111 Magnolia Ave, Tenalfy, NJ 07670).
02-08-2013, 48th Petroushka Ball, event of Russian Children's Welfare Society, Plaza Hotel, NYC
Petroushka Ball-2013 took place at The Plaza Hotel, 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019 on Friday, February 8, 2013. Cast included: Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Lev Zabeginsky (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), singer Alexander Menshikov, Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Igor Lutsev (drums), Vlad Barskiy (keyboard), Andrei Kisselev (dancer), Yana Volkova (dancer).
02-04-2013. School assembly at Colby Middle School in Colby, Wisconsin
On Monday, February 4, 2013, 9:30am Olena Malinina, Elina Karokhina and Mikhail Smirnov performed 45 min school assembly show at the Colby Middle School in Colby, WI.
01-22-2013. School assembly, Huron Valley Lutheran High School in Westland, Michigan
On January 23rd, 2013 at 10:45am Olena, Elina, Mikhail performed 45 min school assembly show at the Huron Valley Lutheran High School in Westland, Michigan.
01-17-2013. School assembly, Royal View Elementary School, North Royalton, Ohio
Thursday, January 17th, 2013 at 2:15pm dancer Olena, musician Elina, and singer Mikhail performed 45 min school assembly show at the Royal View Elementary School in North Royalton, Ohio.
01-12-2013. Ded Moroz Show at Oleandr restaurant in Brooklyn
Russian folk characters "Ded Moroz", "Baba Yaga" and "Snegurochka" provided 1 hour show during New Year's celebration at the Oleandr restaurant in Brighton Beach neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY on January 12th, 2013. Exact address of the venue: 410 Brighton Beach Avenue (bet 4th and 5th Brighton). Дед Мороз, Снегурочка и Баба Яга приняли участие в новогодней ёлке в ресторане Олеандр на Брайтоне 12-ого января 2013-ого года.
01-10-2013. School assembly at the Chance School, Louisville, Kentucky
On Thursday, January 10, 2013 at 10am dancer Boulat, Elina, and Mikhail performed 45 min show at the Chance School in Louisville, Nelson County, Kentucky.
01-10-2013. School assembly at the Cox's Creek Elementary School, Coxs Creek, Kentucky
On Thursday, January 10, 2013 at 8:30am dancer Boulat Moukhametov, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), and Mikhail Smirnov (vocals, garmoshka, guitar) performed 45 min show at the Cox's Creek Elementary School in Coxs Creek, Nelson County, Kentucky.
01-08-2013. School assembly at the Bradie Shrum Lower Elementary School, Salem, Indiana
On Tuesday, January 08, 2013 at 9am dancer Boulat Moukhametov, Elina Karokhina (balalaika), and Mikhail Smirnov (vocals, garmoshka, guitar) performed 45 min show at the Bradie Shrum Lower Elementary School in Salem, Indiana.
12-31-2012, performance at an annual "FIRST NIGHT" event in Morristown, New Jersey
Barynya performed a show during the annual "FIRST NIGHT" event in Morristown, New Jersey. Ensemble Barynya cast: Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Yana Volkova (dancer), Andrei Kisselev (dancer), Leonid Bruk, (balalaika-contrabass). The program of the performance included Hopak, Dark Eyes, Cossack dance, Moscow Nights, Balalaika Medley, Katyusha, Kalinka, Meadowlands, The Long Road, and other popular selections.
12-25-2012. Birthday party at the "Back to USSR" in Brooklyn, New York
On Tuesday, December 25, 2012 MC-tamada Mikhail Smirnov and DJ Elina Karokhina provided music and entertainment during Birthday party at the Russian restaurant Back To USSR in Brooklyn, New York.
12-21-2012. School assembly at the Phoenix Academy in Shrub Oak, New York
On Friday, December 21st, 2012 Alisa Egorova (dancer), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika) performed at the Phoenix Academy, 3151 Stony Street, Shrub Oak, NY (New York).
12-20-2012. Corporate event at the Siberian Floors NYC
Russian Themed Corporate Party on Thursday, December 20th, 2012 from 6 to 11pm. Dancers, singers and musicians of Barynya ensemble at the Siberian Floors NYC, 145 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Erik Davletbaev, Leonid Bruk, Alexander Menshikov, Alexandre Tseytlin, Pavel Zhivago, Katya Zakharova, Valentina Kvasova.
12-20-2012. Montessori Elementary School, Yonkers, New York
On Thursday, December 20, 2012 (9:30am) Barynya Trio performed at the Montessori Elementary School 27 in Yonkers, New York. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Erik Davletbaev.
12-19-2012. Hamburg Elementary School, Hamburg, Sussex County, New Jersey
On Wednesday, December 19, 2012 at 1pm Barynya Trio performed at the Hamburg Elementary School in Hamburg, New Jersey. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Erik Davletbaev.
On Tuesday, December 18, 2012 Barynya Trio performed at the Youths Benefit Elementary School in Fallston, Maryland. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Erik Davletbaev.
12-17-2012, Martin Luther Christian School, Pennsauken, New Jersey
On Monday, December 17, 2012, 1:30pm Barynya Trio performed at the Martin Luther Christian School in Pennsauken, NJ. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Erik Davletbaev.
12-12-2012, Casella Theater, Castleton State College, Castleton, Vermont
On Tuesday, December 11th, 2012 (7pm) and Wednesday, December 12th, 2012 (10am) Barynya performed at the Castleton State College (Casella Theater) in Castleton, Vermont. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov, Elina Karokhina, Leonid Bruk, Irina Zagornova, Valentina Kvasova, Irina Kleyfeld, Alexander Rudoy, Aliaksandr Anatska.
12-09-2012, World Trade Center Seaport Hotel, Boston, Massachusetts
Elina, Mikhail, Erik, Aliaksander, Olga and Irina performed during corporate event at the World Trade Center Seaport Hotel in , Boston, Massachusetts on Sunday, December 9, 2012.
11-13-2012, New Century International Middle School, Fayetteville, North Carolina
Elina, Mikhail, and Erik performed a school assembly show at the New Century International Middle School in Fayetteville, North Carolina on Tuesday, November 13, 2012 at 10am.
11-09-2012. "Touch of Our World" event, Penn State Harrisburg, Middletown, Pennsylvania
Friday, November 9, 2012 from 630pm to 10pm. "Touch of Our World" event at the Capitol Union Building Student Center, Penn State Harrisburg, 777 West Harrisburg Pike, Middletown, PA 17057.
11-08-2012. School assembly at Pleasant Valley Elementary School in Harrisonburg, Virginia
On Thursday, November 8, 2012 around 1:30PM Mikhail, Elina, and Erik presented 45 min assembly show at Pleasant Valley Elementary School, 215 Pleasant Valley Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801.
11-03-2012. Birthday party at Mirage Banquet Hall in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
DJ Elina, DJ Alisa, MC Mikhail provided music and entertainment for birthday party at Mirage Banquete Hall in Greenfield neighborhood of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Saturday, November 3rd, 2012.
10-18-2012, School assembly at the St. Jude School, Mountain Top, Pennsylvania
Mikhail Smirnov and dancer Erik provided 45 min school assembly program at the St. Jude School (A National Blue Ribbon School) in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania on Thursday, October 18, 2012. (St. Jude School, 422 S. Mountain Blvd. Mountain Top, PA 18707)
10-04-2012. American Museum of Natural History, New York City. Pepsi-Cola Corporate Event.
09-22-2012, Soho House in Meatpacking District, New York, NY
Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, and dancer Valentina Kvasova performed during kid's party at the Soho House in NYC Meatpacking District (9th Ave. betw 13th and 14th Streets), 29-35 9th Avenue, New York, NY 10014 on Saturday, September 22nd, 2012, from 4:30 to 5:30pm.
08-07-2012, Morristown Green, Morristown, New Jersey
Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, and dancer Valentina Kvasova performed during international festival at the Morristown Green in Morristown, New Jersey on Tuesday, August 7th, 2012 from noon to 1:15pm.
08-05-2012, Russian-Gypsy style party on the boat in New York City
Elina Karokhina, Mikhail Smirnov, Pasha Zhivago (bayan-accordion) and Alexandre Tseytlin performed during Russian-Gypsy style party on the boat in New York City on Sunday, August 5th, 2012 from 6 to 8pm.
07-07-2012, Saunders Trades and Technical High School in Yonkers, NY
Barynya trio (Mikhail Smirnov, Alexander Menshikov, Elina Karokhina) and Pesvebi Georgian dancers performed together a program of Georgian music and dances of Caucasus Mountains, Russian and Gypsy song, and balalaika music. The performance took place during the Summer Worldfest Series at the Saunders Trades and Technical High School, 183 Palmer Road, Yonkers, NY 10701 on Saturday, July 7th, 2012.
DJ Elina, bilingual MC-Tamada Mikhail and singer Alexander Menshikov provided music and entertainment for Russian party in Sloatsburg, NY (town of Ramapo in Rockland County, New York) on Saturday, June 30th, 2012.
DJ Elina, bilingual MC-Tamada Mikhail singer Sasha provided music, songs, and bilingual entertainment at beautiful private house in Holmdel, New Jersey (Holmdel Township in Monmouth County, NJ).
04-24-2012, Performing Arts Center-Sussex, Newton, New Jersey
Gypsy show on Tuesday, April 24th, 2012 at the Sussex County Community College Performing Arts Center, One College Hill Road, Newton, New Jersey 07860. 5 performers: A.Menshikov, V.Kvasova, B.Moukhametov, E.Karokhina, L.Bruk, M.Smirnov.
New York City Gypsy Trio performed at the Russian Restaurant Nasha Rasha, 4 West 19th Street, New York, NY with program of popular Russian Gypsy songs and dances.
04-10-2012, Mount Baker Theatre in Bellingham, Washington
Two performance of ensemble Barynya (10am and 12:15pm) on Tuesday, April 10th 2012 at the Mount Baker Theatre in Bellingham, Washington. 5 performers: V.Kvasova, A.Zinenko, B.Moukhametov, E.Karokhina, M.Smirnov.
03-20-2012, Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, Rhode Island College, Providence, RI
Tuesday, March 20, 2012, 7:30pm. Barynya concert at Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, Rhode Island College, Roberts 120, Providence, RI 02908-1991. 15 performers: V.Kvasova, O.Chpitalnaia, Ganna Makarova, A.Brovkina, B.Moukhametov, V.Verterich, A.Anatska, A.Rudoy, E.Karokhina, A.Tseytlin, Y.Khmel, L.Bruk, M.Smirnov, I.Zagornova, V.Loginov).
State Capella of Saint Petersburg, St.Petersburg, Russia, February 27, 2012.
Soloists of ensemble Barynya Elina Karokhina and Mikhail Smirnov were invited to perform at the concert dedicated to celebration of 80th jubilee of Mr. Nikolai Aleksandrovich Shubin, famous teacher of the balalaika and domra. Elina and Mikhail played a very difficult medley that consisted of Russian folk songs, classical and popular hits. The concert took place at the "State Capella of Saint Petersburg", one of the most prestigious concert halls in St. Petersburg, Russia located at Naberezhnaya Reky Moiki, #20, metro (subway station) "Nevsky Prospekt". All photos and videos are available at st.petersburg.russia.htm
02-10-2012, 47th Petroushka Ball at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City
Musicians of Barynya Balalaika Orchestra and dancers of ensemble Barynya provided live song, dance, and music entertainment for 47th Petroushka Ball that was taking place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel located on the corner of 53th Street and Park Avenue in New York City {exact address: 301 Park Ave, New York, NY 10022} on Friday, Friday, February 10, 2012. Cast of ensemble Barynya dancers, musicians and singers included: dancer Boulat Moukhametov, dancer Valentina Kvasova, Mikhail Smirnov (band leader, guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Yuriy (drums), Fima (trumpet), singer Alexander Menshikov, singer Irina Zagornova, Gennady Gutkin (bayan).
On Thursday, January 19th, 2012 M.Smirnov, E.Karokhina, V.Verterich, Moukhametov, Rudoy, N.Kobryn performed during Russian Nights International Banquet, Auction, and Awards at Wild Sheep Foundation's Annual Convention at the Silver Legacy Resort Casino, 407 N. Virginia Street, Reno, NV 89501.
01-13-2012, New York Encounter International Dance Festival in New York City
Barynya performed "Metelitsa", "Kalinka", "Two guitars", and Cossack dance at the New York Encounter International Dance Festival in New York City on January 13th, 2012. Festival took place at the Hammerstein Ballroom Manhattan Center (311 West 34th Street at 8th Avenue, New York, NY 10001).
Barynya Trio at the Law & Order: Special Victims Unit: Russian Brides, Season 13, Episode 7
Elina Karokhina and other musicians of Barynya ensemble were a part of famous TV show Episode about Russian mafia. In order to bring down a Russian mobster running an international prostitution/kidnapping ring disguised as a Russian bride website, Cragen steps from behind the desk to go undercover as a "john". Cast: Elina Karokhina - balalaika, Mikhail Smirnov - garmoshka, Alexandre Tseytlin - violin.
NYC Marathon Opening Ceremony, Tavern On the Green, New York City, November 4, 2011
Russian music, dance and song ensemble "Barynya" performed on Friday, November 4th, 2011 at the Tavern On the Green's Courtyard at 67th Street, and Central Park West in New York City during NYC Marathon Opening Ceremony. Dancers: Valentina, Anna, Aliaksandr, Danila.
October 20, 2011, Bowman Elementary School, Lexington, MA
50 minute presentation at the Bowman Elementary School, 9 Philip Road, Lexington, MA 02421-6099. Dancers Olga Chpitalnaia, Alexander Rudoy, and Nikolay Kislyak (bayan).
August 12 2011, School concert, dance and music workshop in New York City
P035M @ Bellevue Hopital Center, 462 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016
Click on images above to see full size photos
Barynya Balalaika Trio on TV. Bevcam TV Studio, Beverly, MA, June 29th, 2011.
Barynya Balalaika Trio: Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals).
Recorded and produced by EstradaProduction. All photos and videos from this event are available at the website www.Russian365.com.
Sunday, June 5th 2011, "Salute to Israel Parade", New York City
"Salute to Israel Parade", June 5, 2011, NYC / Click on the images above to see full size high resolution photos / All photos and videos from the event
Troika Festival, Erie, Pennsylvania. Memorial Day-2011.
"Balalaika Music Medley", Erie, PA, May 29th, 2011. "Troika" Festival.
Recorded during "Troika" Festival in Erie, Pennsylvania on May 29th, 2011. Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocal).
02-11-2011, 46th Petroushka Ball at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City
46th Petroushka Ball took place at the Waldorf Astoria, 301 Park Avenue, New York, NY on Friday, February 11th, 2011. Cast included: Sergey Gurbeloshvili (saxophone), Alexandra Mogilevich (drums), Lev Zabeginsky (domra-alto), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, vocals), Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Yan Khmel (bayan), singer Alexander Menshikov, dancer Andrij Cybyk, dancer Anna Brovkina. Performance during dinner by Elina Karokhina (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar), and singer Alexander Menshikov. Recorded by Alexander Gurman (alexandergurman's YouTube channel) on February 11, 2011 at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City during the Petroushka Ball-2011.
Cossack dance performance during basketball game NJ NETS vs Utah JAZZ on January 19th, 2011 at the Prudential Center arena in Newark, New Jersey, USA. Photo from New York Times newspaper.
Performance during VIP reception before basketball game NJ NETS vs Utah JAZZ on January 19th, 2011 at the Prudential Center arena in Newark, New Jersey, USA.
APAP SHOWCASE 2011
HILTON HOTEL, NEW YORK CITY
MORGAN SUITE, SECOND FLOOR
SUNDAY, JANUARY 9, 2011
07:45PM, 08:45PM, 10:30PM, 11:30PM
Hilton Hotel (at 54th Street), 1335 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10019. Ensemble Barynya will presents Russian, Cossack, and Ukrainian traditional dance, song and music with live accompaniment of balalaika, balalaika-contrabass, and garmoshka (Russian button accordion). The program will be performed by 6 dancers, 3 musicians, and singer. Barynya was founded in 1991 in New York City and showcasing at APAP every year since 2004.
December 2010, concert tour with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet
Anya Zeenenko and Boulat Moukhametov are performing Trepak (Russian: «Трепак») - Russian dance from the "Nutcracker" ballet by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky during the Aspen Santa Fe Ballet company's winter tour 2010.
Sunday, October 10th, 2010. Russian Slavic Cultural Festival. St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, 200 Alexander Avenue, Howell NJ 07731. Ensemble Barynya performances at 2pm and 4pm. For more info call 848-459-2426.
Saturday, August 14th, 2010, Untermyer Park, Yonkers, New York
It has been the first time in 2010 when singers Irina Zagornova (soprano) performed with Barynya during the same concert. Elina Karokhina (balalaika) and Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass) have played a new arrangement of the Sailors dance for balalaika and balalaika-contrabass. Video Alisa Yegorova, video editing L.Bruk. Photos by L.Bruk and I. Fridman. See all photos and videos from this concert here.
Ensemble Barynya at the promotional advertising campaign in New York City for "Krushka and Bochka KVASS". KVASS is a natural bread-based original beverage of Russia.
Friday, April 9th, 2010, Old Mill Inn, 21 Old Mill Road, Toronto, Ontario, M8X 1G5 CANADA, Winter Palace Ball and the Gala Charity Fundraiser benefitting Ruskoka, a summer camp for underprivileged children.
Musicians: Elina Karokhina
(balalaika),
Leonid Bruk
(contrabass balalaika),
Yan Khmel
(bayan),
Mikhail Smirnov
(garmoshka, guitar, vocals),
Valery Abramov (tenor-saxophone), Oleg Sorin (trumpet).
Sunday, January 10, 2010, 8:40PM, 9:40PM, 10:40PM,
APAP booking conference NYC Hilton, Morgan Suite, 2 Floor
1335 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10019
10-04-2009, Concert at Van Nostrand Theatre in Brentwood, New York
Ensemble Barynya presented a program of Russian, Cossack, Ukrainian, Gypsy, Jewish traditional dancing, music and songs at Van Nostrand Theatre in Brentwood, New York (USA) on Sunday, October 4th, 2009. Video recording - Alexander Feygin, video editing - Leonid Bruk. Artistic Director/Founder Mikhail Smirnov. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov (vocals, garmoshka), Alexander Menshikov (vocals), Lev Zabeginsky (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Roman Ivanoff (percussions), Serge Rogozin (balalaika), Yan Khmel (bayan), Irina Zagornova (vocals), Kagarov sisters (vocals), Dancers: Alexey Maltsev, Danila Sherstobitov, Aliaksandr Anatska, Alexander Rudoy, Valentina Kvasova, Olga Chpitalnaia, Ksenya Hentisz, Olga Yeliseyeva.
Solo concert of Barynya ensemble at the huge concert hall in Chihuahua City was stopped in the beginning and delayed. Many people outside of the theatre still wanted to get in to see the show. Finally they put sound monitors and projection screens on the street and let some more people inside. That is a very funny funny video. Because they recorded the concert but failed to record the sound, so they just pulled some music off the internet and put the two together. The sound track is fun in its own way too. Our singer Sasha Menshikov did not like it. Actually he hated this video. But maybe he was overreacting.
Сольный концерт ансамбля Барыня в огромном концертном зале города Чиуауа Сити (Чивава Сити) был задержан на 30 ИЛИ 40 минут. На улице осталось около 1000 человек, которым не досталось билетов, а люди требовали впустить их посмотреть шоу. На улице поставили большие проэкционные экраны, звуковые колонки, и в концов концов мы начали наше выступление. К сожалению, на видео вместо нашего собственного звука местные видеооператор и режиссер, которые сделали нам это видео в подарок, зачем-то "подложили" записи каких-то других русских ансамблей. Но эти записи тоже довольно прикольные сами по себе. А видео с выступления получилось очень красивое. Саше Меньшикову оно, правда, страшно не понравилось. Очень сильно не понравилось. Саша Меньшиков всё принимает слишком близко к сердцу.
Festival International des Rythmes du Monde, Chicoutimi (Quebec), Canada, July 2009
Over 10 thousand people attended Barynya performance during Festival in Chicoutimi. Performers: Leonid Bruk, Mikhail Smirnov, Alexander Menshikov, Yan Khmel, Lev Zabeginsky, Valentina Kvasova, Ilia Pankratov.
UKRAINIAN AMERICAN COORDINATING COUNCIL (УКРАЇНСЬКА АМЕРИКАНСЬКА КООРДИНАЦІЙНА РАДА) and producer Alex Gutmacher were using photos of Barynya ensemble on their promotional postcard for the advertisement of the event in Brooklyn, New York on June 28, 2009 without permission and despite the copyright warning. Below is the scan of the postcard with ensemble Barynya photos in the middle. Photos used on the postcard were made by John Michael Kohler Arts Center and Dalia Bagdonaite. Please ask for the permission next time you need our photos. Thank you!
World On Stage Dance Festival, Stamford, Connecticut, May 2009
"World On Stage" Dance Festival took place in Stamford, Connecticut on May 2, 2009 at the "Palace Theatre" (61 Atlantic Street, Stamford, Connecticut 06901). Dancers:
Valentina Kvasova,
Olga Chpitalnaia,
Ksenya Hentisz,
Sophia Panych,
Mikhail Nesterenko,
Andrei Kisselev,
Aleksey Klyuchnikov,
Alexey Maltsev,
Alexander Rudoy.
Russian dance workshop, Glastonbury, Connecticut, May 2009
Dancer Alexey Maltsev and garmoshka player Mikhail Smirnov teaching Russian dance workshop at the Glastonbury schools' "Russian Day" celebration on Thursday, May 28, 2009.
February 28, 2009. Russian Winter Festival in Albany, New York
Ensemble Barynya performance on February 28, 2009 during Russian Winter Festival in Albany, New York. The temperature outside was 24F plus the wind factor. It was REALLY COLD! Performers: Alex Siniavski (guitar) - it was so cold he was afraid to play his balalaika, Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka), Alexander Menshikov (vocals, buben), dancer and singer Valentina Kvasova and dancer Alexey Maltsev. We put on all costumes we have had with us that day and it was still very cold...
"The Star-Ledger", NJ's largest local newspaper, USA
February 23, 2009
..."The spirit of the Old Country transplanted to the New -- that's the essence of Barynya... which made a lively stop Sunday at the Community Theatre in Morristown.
Founded and directed by Mikhail Smirnov, a Russian ethnomusicologist who now lives in Cliffside, the troupe is comprised of immigrants from Russia and its satellites, like the former Soviet republic of Ukraine. Yet in the wake of perestroika, the geographic distribution of Cossack dance staples like the "Kazatsky" has come to include parts of Brooklyn, Canada and New Jersey. Although farther out from the Russian sun, the orbits of these lesser moons are apparently fixed.
Smirnov, who narrates the program when he is not squeezing an accordion-like instrument called the garmoshka, seems comfortable with this irony, and he peppers his monologue with witticisms. His audience's propensity to greet the music with rhythmic clapping..." read full article in NJ's "Star Ledger"
Concert in Morristown, New Jersey, February 22, 2009 (video)
02-13-2009, 44th Petroushka Ball, Waldorf Astoria, New York
44th Annual Petroushka Ball took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City on Friday, February 13th, 2009. Cast of musicians and singers: Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), Lev Zabeginsky (domra), Alexandre Tseytlin (violin), Yan Khmel (bayan), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Alexander Menshikov (singer) and Lyudmila Fesenko.
Mikhail Smirnov, Lev Zabeginsky, Valentina Kvasova, Natalia Ejova, Ksenya Hentisz, Stefan Kuziw, Mikhail Nesterenko, Danila Sherstobitov, Alexey Maltsev performed three shows during the Fourth Annual Slavic Festival in Eugene, Oregon organized by Slavic Home, NPO. On the photo below ensemble Barynya dancers are performing
Daniel Cooper, the dance of Russian Nobility.
International dance competition "Superstars of Dance", NBC, 2009.
Cossack dancers of New York based ensemble Barynya were competing at the SUPERSTARS OF DANCE, international dance competition led by executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller (American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance). The show hosted by Michael Flatley (Lord of the Dance) and Susie Castillo, a former Miss USA, premiered on NBC network on January 4th and aired through January 26th, 2009. Dancers
Yaroslaw Dobriansky,
Vasiliy Myshletsov,
Ilia Streltsov,
Aleksey Klyuchnikov,
Danila Sherstobitov,
Alexey Maltsev,
Alexander Rudoy, and
Alex Sizov performed a
Cosssack dance routine choreographed by
Vitaly Verterich. Cossack costumes made by famous Russian folk costumes designer
Svetlana Gavrilova. Artistic Director of Barynya
Mikhail Smirnov was one of eight judges to decide which country will take home the coveted Trophy. Mikhail was not able to vote for Cossack dancers or the Russian team.
Dancers Valentina Kvasova,
Natalia Ejova,
Olga Chpitalnaia,
Natia Rtveliashvili,
Dasha Paliy ,
Elena Yakubina performed a dance number "DEVOCHKI" in a musical "Mother Russia", Carnegie Hall, NYC. The story was about an American guy visiting Russia, "Barynya" dancers were in the scene where his friends are afraid that he will be seduced by Russian girls and warning him to stay away from them.
09-18-2008, Liberty Medal Award Ceremony for former Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia
2008 Liberty Medal Award Ceremony for the former Soviet leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Mikhail Gorbachev at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia on September 18th, 2008. Cast: Mikhail Smirnov (artistic director, garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Lev Zabeginsky (balalaika), Yan Khmel (bayan accordion), Alexander Menshikov (singer), Irina Zagornova (singer), Diana Bruk (singer), Alexey Maltsev (dancer), Anna Brovkina (dancer), Andrei Kisselev (dancer), Olga Chpitalnaia (dancer), Natalia Ejova (dancer), Valentina Kvasova (dancer), Vitaly Verterich (dancer) and Ilia Pankratov (dancer).
Russian DJ Barnaul (a.k.a. Alexey Maltsev), singer Alexander Menshikov, Russian MC MISHA (a.k.a. Mikhail Smirnov), and Gypsy dancer Anna entertained mixed Russian-American crowd during Russian party at the club "TOUCH", 240 West 52nd Street, New York, New York, 10019.
New York City Russian Radio Station City Radio 540AM
Festival of Russian music, dance and culture, May 2008
Brighton Beach Festival of Russian music, dance and culture on May 18th, 2008 was organized by one of New York Russian Radio Stations, CITY RADIO 540AM. Barynya performed in the beginning of the concert. Five dancers and two musicians were on the stage built near the south end of Coney Island Avenue (next to Boardwalk) in Brooklyn, New York. Dancers Valentina Kvasova, Ganna Makarova, Olga Chpitalnaia, Danila Sherstobitov, Alexey Maltsev performed Russian traditional dances "Barynya", "Metelitsa", "Kalinka", "Korobushka", Cossack dance Varenka, and Ukrainian folk dance "Hopak". Mikhail Smirnov was singing and playing garmoshka while Leonid Bruk was burning fingers on his huge balalaika-contrabass.
Monday, April 7, 2008, Dickinson College, Carlisle, PA video
The Russian Department at Dickinson College (Carlisle, Pennsylvania) hosted its annual Russian dinner on Monday, April 7 2008. The dinner featured traditional Russian food and a performance by ensemble Barynya Russian folk singers and dancers: Valentina Kvasova, Mikhail Smirnov, and Alexey Maltsev.
It has become a good tradition for Barynya dancers to introduce a new numbers of the program before the Russian Nobility Association in New York City during annual Spring Ball.
Our version of Hopak - Ukraininan folk dance - was introduced for the first time during Russian Nobility Ball 2005. Tsyganskiy (Russian Gypsy Roma) folk dance and song Kai Yone was first seen during RNB-2007.
Russsian Nobility Ball-2008 took place at the Grand Ball Room of the Pierre Hotel (61st Street and 5th Avenue in New York City) on May 9th, 2008. This year we brought our brand new number: English inspired dance of Russian Nobility Danila Cooper.
02-08-2008, 43th Petroushka Ball, Waldorf Astoria, New York City
43rd Annual Petroushka Ball took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City on Friday, February 8, 2008. Barynya Balalaika Orchestra performed from 9:30pm until 2:30am. Dancers performed "Kalinka" and "Hopak" at 9:30pm. Cast of musicians and singers included: Victor Danilochkin (bayan), Alexander Menshikov (singer), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), Lev Zabeginsky (balalaika, domra), Sergei Riabtsev (violin), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals).
01-26-2008, THE KAYE Playhouse Theater at Hunter College, New York City
Concert of legendary Russian Gypsy singer Zhenya Shevchenko took place in New York City on Saturday, January 26, 2008 at THE KAYE Playhouse Theater at Hunter College. Photo by Dalia Bagdonaite, video by Alexander Feygin.
Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens. December 2007
Barynya gig for TV Chanel RUSSIA TODAY, New York City
On December 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, 31, 2007 from 12PM till 4 PM New York based Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya dancers and musicians were leading a group of Russian Father Frosts and Snow Maidens (Ded Moroz and Snegurochka) to greet New Yorkers and promote new TV Channel "RUSSIA TODAY".
Puerto Rico International Festival of Cultures. December 2007
Barynya in Toronto, Canada, December 2007
On December 13, 2007 at 8pm Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya performed at the "Guvernment" (Kool Haus Entertainment Complex), 132 Queens Quay East, Toronto, Ontario M5A 3Y5 Canada... view pictures
Roswell Cultural Arts Center. Roswell, Georgia. October 2007
video recorded on Saturday, October 13, 2007 at Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forest Street, Roswell, Georgia during joined concert with Atlanta Balalaika Society. Dancers: Natalia Ejova, Andrij Cybyk, Musicians:
Alex Siniavski (balalaika prima),
Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, vocal),
David Cooper (balalaika contrabass),
Alexander Menshikov (vocal, tambourine).
Slavic Cultural Festival Sept 29, 2007 McLean, VA
view photos provided by K.P. Vereshchaka
Mikhail Smirnov, Victoria Pichurova, Valentina Kvasova, Olga Chpitalnaia, Natalia Ejova, Mikhail Nesterenko, Stefan Kuziw, and Roman Lewkowicz photos from Slavic Cultural Festival that took place on September 29, 2007 at the McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean, VA. Ensemble Barynya shared the stage with the Kazak Family Trio of Belarus, the Bandura Tells of Ukraine, and local organization, the Washington Balalaikas Society Orchestra.
Folklorama 2007 Russian Pavillion Winnipeg Canada
View photos and video from Folklorama 2007 Russian Pavilion
Artistic Director of the Barynya ensemble Mikhail Smirnov was invited to play gusli, balalaika, garmoshka and sing Russian tongue twisters at the FOLKLORAMA 2007 (the largest and longest running multicultural festival of its kind in the world) festival held annualy in Winnipeg, Canada.
July 11-28, 2007. Performance series in Ohio communities
view photos from Ensemble Barynya Ohio summer tour 2007
Ensemble Barynya was touring the state of OHIO as part of the Ohio Arts Council’s Summer International Music and Performing Arts in Communities Tour (IMPACT). Barynya performed many shows, Russian & Ukrainian dance workshops from July 17 to July 28, 2007. Performance locations included Lakeside, Warren, Marietta, Jackson and Grandview Heights. All performances were free and open to the public.
July 9-15, 2007. The Balalaika and Domra Association of America 2007 Decorah, Iowa
Ensemble Barynya's singer Alexander Menshikov and Artistic Director and garmoshka player
Mikhail Smirnov were invited as guest artists and teachers of Russia Gypsy traditional music to the annual conference of The Balalaika and Domra Association of America. To see pictures from this wonderful Festival of Russian music click the image above.
July 3, 2007. Lions Clubs International 90th Convention in Chicago, IL
ENSEMBLE BARYNYA PERFORMANCE AT THE
Lions Clubs International 90th Convention in Chicago, IL at the
Hilton Hotel for the Russian Evening Event on Sunday, July 3rd, 2007.
On the photo from left to right: dancer Natalia Ejova, Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka), Jim Cox (contrabass), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), and dancer Andrij Cybyk...
NYC Russian Heritage Festival "Spirits of Russia", Copacabana Club, New York City
The Russian Nobility Association in America annual Spring Russian Nobility
Ball took place at the luxurious "Pierre" Hotel on May 11, 2007 in New York City.
Musicians and dancers of New York based Russian dance and music ensemble Barynya (full company)
provided music for coctail hour and thirty minute music and dance program during the dinner. "Barynya" performed popular Russian Gypsy pieces: "Two Guitars", "Kay One", "Vingerka", "3 lines", Russian favorite balalaika arrangement "The Moon is shining brightly" and Cossack song and dance "Varen'ka".
April 2007. Fairmont Chicago Hotel, Chicago, IL
Sunday, April 29, 2007 from 8 to 11pm. “Gorodissky & Partners”, Ltd. reception at Fairmont Chicago Hotel, 200 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601. Musicians: M.Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Alex Siniavski (balalaika, Gypsy guitar), Stefan Kuziw (tambourine), and Richard Armandi (contrabass)
Slavic Spring Festival in Washington, D.C. pictures, video
January 2007. Penn State University tour
February 2007. Embassy of Russia in Washington, DC
Ensemble "Barynya" provided music and dancing for the MASLENITSA at the
Embassy of Russia in Washington, DC. It was a long drive from Brooklyn for all Barynya members: dancers Valentina Kvasova and Vitaly Verterich, singer Victoria Pichurova, musicians Alex Siniavski (balalaika, Gypsy guitar), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar), violinist Alexander Tseytlin and Ruslan Khain (c-bass). Photos from inside of
Embassy of Russia
02-09-2007, 42nd Petroushka Ball, Waldorf Astoria Manhattan, New York City
42nd Annual Petroushka Ball took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City on Friday, February 9th, 2007. Barynya Balalaika Orchestra performed from 10:30pm until 2:30am in the morning. Cast of musicians and singers included: Vadim Kolpakov (7 string guitar), Ruslan Khain (contrabass), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), Svetlana Nikonova, (domra), Vladimir Zakharevich (bayan), Sergei Riabtsev (violin), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals), Alexander Menshikov (singer).
October 2006. John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Sheboygan, WI
Ensemble "Barynya" (full company: six dancers and four musicians) performed six shows in Wisconsin. Rouslan Khaine (contrabass and balalaika contrabass) was not able to fly and drove all the way from New York. Final concert took place in wonderful auditorium of John Michael Kohler Arts Center (608 New York Avenue, Sheboygan, WI). Some friends of ensemble Barynya drove for over two hours just to see our performance.
Ensemble Barynya 2006
John Michael Kohler Arts Center
September 2006. Baltimore, Maryland
2 min 20 sec Russian Gypsy folk song and dance "Those were the days" video. Folk singer Alexander Menshikov and Russian music ensemble "Barynya" showcase at the booking conference on September 29, 2006 in Baltimore, Maryland. Mikhail Smirnov-guitar, Vadim Kolpakov-Russian Gypsy 7-string guitar, Ruslan Khain - balalaika contrabass, Alex Siniavski-balalaika, Gypsy guitar.
Alexander Menshikov and Mikhail Smirnov are performing as "GYPSY BOYS" at the "Starlight Serenade" concert presented by the Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society at the Bartley Ranch Amphitheater, at 7:30 pm on Saturday, September 2nd. The Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society is dedicated to the perpetuation of music written for the balalaika, domra, and related instruments.
July 2006. Akron, Ohio
The annual conference of The Balalaika and Domra Association of America took place in Akron, Ohio. Barynya's singer Alexander Menshikov and director Mikhail Smirnov went to Akron, Ohio to teach Russian folk singing and Russian folk chorus and to perform for 160 attendees.. view photos
JUNE 2006. PEPSICO WORLD HEADQUARTERS. Purchase, NY
Eight Barynya Dancers provide Cossack dance with amazing acrobatic tricks at the Pepsi-Cola. In the end of the show we recieved well deserved standing ovation from huge croud of more than a thousand people. view photos
JUNE 2006. WORLD YACHT PRINCESS, NEW YORK CITY
Barynya musicians play aboard World Yacht's " Princess" at Pier 81 (West 41st street at the Hudson River) in New York City at the Russian Children's Welfare Society event "Petroushka on the Hudson".
02-10-2006, 41st Petroushka Ball, Waldorf Astoria, New York City
41st Annual Petroushka Ball took place at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City on Friday, February 10th, 2006. Cast of musicians and singers included: Gary Nova (singer), Alexander Menshikov (singer), Irina Zagornova (singer), Svetlana Mikhol (singer), Valentina Kvasova (singer, dancer), Leonid Bruk (balalaika-contrabass), Ruslan Khain (k-bass), Alex Siniavski (balalaika), Lev Zabeginsky (balalaika, domra), Gennady Gutkin (bayan), Alexandre Trsytlin (violin), Mikhail Smirnov (guitar, garmoshka, vocals).
FEBRUARY 2006 Barynya performance at the World Champions exhibition and skating event in Locust Valley, New York.
On the picture ensemble Barynya musicians with the gold medalists of the 2004 World Figure Skating Championships in Ice Dancing Tatiana Navka and Roman Kostomarov. From left to right: Tatiana Navka, Mikhail Smirnov, Roman Kostomarov and Alex Siniavski
JANUARY 2006
Russian folk dance and music ensemble Barynya at the
Slavic Festival in Eugine, Oregon... read more, see pictures
SEPTEMBER 2005
Buckley Recital Hall at Amherst College, Amherst, Massachusetts ensemble Barynya invited Legend of Russian immigration Gypsy singer ZHENYA SHEVCHENKO.
OCTOBER 2005 Ensemble Barynya performed at the Opening Gala of special exihibition RUSSIA! in Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum (New York City). RUSSIA! is the most comprehensive and significant exhibition of Russian art outside Russia since the end of the Cold War. Including more than 250 artworks...
SEPTEMBER 2005 Ensemble Barynya entertained lavish party celebrating the American launch of Imperia Vodka with with 100 pounds of caviar and a 10,000-pound ice bar paid for by Russian billionaire Roustam Tariko at the Liberty Island. Scores of glass lanterns hung from the treetop canopy to create an ethereal atmosphere, while Russian belly dancers, fortunetellers, storytellers, and traditional musicians entertained. Later, guests noshed on such decadent Russian delicacies as carved whole roasted sturgeon with dill caviar cream, juniper-scented roast suckling pig, and beef Stroganoff at the dinner buffet. Tentation’s meal was followed by a 20-minute fireworks display by Grucci and a dessert of strawberries and chocolate, as well as an hourlong show from Duran Duran, who performed on a barge just off the island.
read morepictures
JULY 2005
Russian folk music and dance ensemble Barynya participated in 2005 Balalaika
and Domra Association of America conference in Madison, WI. We were proud to perform at the gala concert
with Judy Sherman (vocal), Victor Gorodinsky (balalaika contrabass) and Greg Harbar (accordion).
June 21, 2005 Performance at Biotechnology Industry Organization's (BIO) 2005 Annual Conference.
Gala Reception was held at Philadelphia Museum of Art, one of Philadelphia's most prestigious venues for entertainment.
This reception took place outside on the terrace amidst the grand architectural
setting of the museum and panoramic views of the city. Barynya was performing at the main stage. Many street performers were creating small cells of entertainment
virtually everywhere: unicyclists, jugglers, caricaturists, street magicians, mimes,
fire-eaters, musicians and dancers.
May, 2005
Real Russian Nobility celebrate with ensemble "Barynya" when they need Russian dancers and music.
Pictures were taken and video recorede at the Russian Nobility Ball in Grand Ball Room of "The Pierre Hotel",
Fifth Avenue at 61st Street, New York City, New York, USA on Friday, May 13th, 2005.
Television and radio commercials recorded for Brooklyn Russian Steam Bath
"Sandoony USA" for New York Russian Radio and TV station VSE in New York
www.radio620am.com
15 seconds MP3 and
30 seconds MP3
February, 2005
When The Best in entertainment business need true Russian flavor they call "Barynya" .
Ensemble participated in
Discovery Channel show "The Party Planner with David Tutera".
The theme of the party was "Doctor Zhivago Russian Palace".
David Tutera impressive client list includes Barbara Walters, the John F. Kennedy Center,
Elton John, the Rolling Stones, Tommy Hilfiger, and film premiere and celebrity parties,
including the 1998 and 2003 official post-Grammy Awards parties in New York.
David is also a regular entertaining expert on ABC's popular morning show The View.
Natalia Demidova, Sasha Anchutin and Mikhail Smirnov founded Russian folk song and dance ensemle
"Barynya" in November 1991. The first show took place at Russian restaurant "Fyodoroff",
Carle Place, Long Island, NY.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
The word "Barynya" stands for a fast Russian folk dance.
"Barynya" was the first number in the program that was presented by ensemble
back in 1991. In old times in Russia the word "Barynya" (Landlady) was used
by simple folks as a form of addressing to a woman of higher class. The
Barynya dance is an alternation of chastushkas (limericks) and frenetic
dancing. The Barynya chastuskas used to have a refrain "Barynya, barynya,
sudarynya-barynya", or "Barynya ty moya, sudarynya ty moya". The content is
always humoristic. The dancing consists mainly of fancy stomping and
traditional Russian squatwork ("prisyadka", "vprisyadku").
CONTACT INFORMATION
To get the price quote, ask any questions please send an email to msmirnov@yahoo.com or call (201) 981-2497.
* Русские танцоры, профессиональные певцы
* Виртуозные музыканты, народные инструменты
* Балалайка, гармошка, ложки, кугиклы, трещотки, вертушка
* Cценические костюмы: сарафаны, рубахи, косоворотки
* В программе русские, украинские танцы и народные песни
* Виртуозная игра на балалайке
* Юмористическое объяснение программы на английском
Наташа и Миша Смирновы основали ансамбль Барыня в 1991 году.
Первый концерт состоялся в ресторане "Фёдоров",
что в городе Карл Плейс на Лонг Айланде (штат Нью-Йорк).
С тех пор "Барыня" приняла участие в более чем тысяче концертов и программ.
В самом начале ансамбль Барыня представлял собой всего лишь трио:
Миша и Наташа фром Раша и танцор из ансамбля Моисеева Саша.
В настоящее время различные талантливые
музыканты и танцоры выступают в его составе.
Продолжительность концерта до 90 минут,
в программе около 100 русских и украинских народных танцев и песен.
У артистов "Барыни" есть несколько перемен красочных сценических костюмов
специально пошитых для выступлений на сцене.
Артисты ансамбля - профессионалы из бывшего СССР.
Артисты ансамбля
Основатели ансамбля - Русский фольклорный дуэт Миша энд Наташа фром Раша - специалисты по русской народной песенной традиции.
Трудно представить себе концерт ансамбля без яркого сопрано Наташи и Мишиной звонкой гармошки.
Русская народная певица Наталья Смирнова - выпускница Московского Государственного института культуры по специальности хоровое дирижирование.
По окончании работала в Московском Государственном фольклорном центре "Русская Песня" п/у Надежды Бабкиной.
Проживает в США с 1991 года.
Певец и музыкант Миша Смирнов закончил Московский Государственный
институт культуры по специальности хоровое
дирижирование. Во время учёбы в институте работал солистом и хормейстером в фольклорном ансамбле Московия (художественный руководитель Валерий Нестеров).
По окончании МГИКа работал в фольклорном театре Матаня и затем в Московском государственном центре
"Русская песня" п/у Надежды Бабкиной
Балалаешник-виртуоз Алекс Синявский приехал в США в 1992 из Ленинграда,
где солировал в знаменитом Академическом
Русском народном оркестре им. В.В.Андреева,
одном из престижнейших коллективов страны,
закончил Ленинградскую консерваторию.
Танцовщица Ольга Шпитальная в США с 1992,
работала в украинском Государственном ансамбле “Славутич”
и в “Государственном ансамбле песни и пляски Черноморского Флота”. Ольга танцует вместе с ансамблем Барыня более пяти лет.
Танцовщик Виталий Вертерич закончил Московский Государственный
институт культуры и Киевскую балетную академию, солировал в знаменитом Бродвейском шоу "РИВЕРДЕНС" и объездил с ним весь мир.
Юрий Водолага окончил Киевскую академию классического балета.
Работал в Киевском балетном театре и многих других престижнейших коллективах.
Окончил консерваторию Римского-Крорсакова в Ленинграде как преподаватель и хореограф.
Guest teacher в San Francisco Ballet, Baton Rouge Ballet, Connecticut Ballet и Egelevsky American Theatre Dance.
Юрий танцует вместе с ансамблем Барыня более пяти лет.
Танцовщица Ганна Макарова участвовала в шоу Михаила Жванецкого в Москве.
Закончила театральный Институт в Москве и Long Island University (New York City).
Принимает участие в концертах ансамбля Барыня с 1993 года.
Танцор Андрей Сибик закончил University of Akron Conservatory - штат Ohio,
Pointe Park College - штат Пенсильвания и учился на Украине, в национальной школе Академического Украинского народного танца Павла Вирского.
Андрей также выступает с All Nations Dance Company и Syzokryli Ukrainian Dance Ensemble (Нью-Йорк Сити).
12-16-2022, Gypsy Style Surprise Birthday Party at Mari Vanna in New York City
Elina Karokhina and Mikhail Smirnov made a surprise appearance during Sergey's 50th birthday celebration party at the Mari Vanna restaurant in New York City on Friday, December 16, 2022.
12-16-2022, Friday, December 16th, 2022, Anyway Cafe in Brooklyn
On Friday, December 16th, 2022 from 9pm to midnight Mikhail and Elina played at the Anyway Cafe in Brooklyn, 1602 Gravesend Neck Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11229. On the photo below with Assemblyman and Co-Founder of FreedomFMRadio Mikhail Novakhov
With Assemblyman and Co-Founder of FreedomFMRadio Mikhail Novakhov on Friday, December 16th, 2022
12-15-2022. Corporate event at the Da Mikelle Palace in Queens
On Thursday, December 15, 2022 DJ Elina and MC-tamada Mikhail provided music and entertainment during corporate party for Advanced Medical Care group of employees at the XO Hall of Da Mikelle Palace restaurant in Forest Hills, New York. Exact address of the venue: Da Mikelle Palace, 102-55 Queens Bllda, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Mikhail and Elina also played guitar, domra, and sang a few songs in the end of the party.
all photos and videos from St. George Festival
..."The spirit of the Old Country transplanted to the New -- that's the essence of Barynya... which made a lively stop Sunday at the Community Theatre in Morristown.
Cossack dancers of New York based ensemble Barynya were competing at the SUPERSTARS OF DANCE, international dance competition led by executive producers Nigel Lythgoe and Simon Fuller (American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance). The show hosted by Michael Flatley (Lord of the Dance) and Susie Castillo, a former Miss USA, premiered on NBC network on January 4th and aired through January 26th, 2009. Dancers
Yaroslaw Dobriansky,
Vasiliy Myshletsov,
Ilia Streltsov,
Aleksey Klyuchnikov,
Danila Sherstobitov,
Alexey Maltsev,
Alexander Rudoy, and
Alex Sizov performed a
Cosssack dance routine choreographed by
Vitaly Verterich. Cossack costumes made by famous Russian folk costumes designer
Svetlana Gavrilova. Artistic Director of Barynya
Mikhail Smirnov was one of eight judges to decide which country will take home the coveted Trophy. Mikhail was not able to vote for Cossack dancers or the Russian team.
Sunday, April 29, 2007 from 8 to 11pm. “Gorodissky & Partners”, Ltd. reception at Fairmont Chicago Hotel, 200 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601. Musicians: M.Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar, vocals), Alex Siniavski (balalaika, Gypsy guitar), Stefan Kuziw (tambourine), and Richard Armandi (contrabass)
Ensemble "Barynya" provided music and dancing for the MASLENITSA at the
Embassy of Russia in Washington, DC. It was a long drive from Brooklyn for all Barynya members: dancers Valentina Kvasova and Vitaly Verterich, singer Victoria Pichurova, musicians Alex Siniavski (balalaika, Gypsy guitar), Mikhail Smirnov (garmoshka, guitar), violinist Alexander Tseytlin and Ruslan Khain (c-bass). Photos from inside of
Embassy of Russia
Ensemble "Barynya" (full company: six dancers and four musicians) performed six shows in Wisconsin. Rouslan Khaine (contrabass and balalaika contrabass) was not able to fly and drove all the way from New York. Final concert took place in wonderful auditorium of John Michael Kohler Arts Center (608 New York Avenue, Sheboygan, WI). Some friends of ensemble Barynya drove for over two hours just to see our performance.
Alexander Menshikov and Mikhail Smirnov are performing as "GYPSY BOYS" at the "Starlight Serenade" concert presented by the Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society at the Bartley Ranch Amphitheater, at 7:30 pm on Saturday, September 2nd. The Sierra Nevada Balalaika Society is dedicated to the perpetuation of music written for the balalaika, domra, and related instruments.
The annual conference of The Balalaika and Domra Association of America took place in Akron, Ohio. Barynya's singer Alexander Menshikov and director Mikhail Smirnov went to Akron, Ohio to teach Russian folk singing and Russian folk chorus and to perform for 160 attendees.. view photos
Eight Barynya Dancers provide Cossack dance with amazing acrobatic tricks at the Pepsi-Cola. In the end of the show we recieved well deserved standing ovation from huge croud of more than a thousand people. view photos
Barynya musicians play aboard World Yacht's " Princess" at Pier 81 (West 41st street at the Hudson River) in New York City at the Russian Children's Welfare Society event "Petroushka on the Hudson".
Barynya performance at the World Champions exhibition and skating event in Locust Valley, New York.
On the picture ensemble Barynya musicians with the gold medalists of the 2004 World Figure Skating Championships in Ice Dancing Tatiana Navka and Roman Kostomarov. From left to right: Tatiana Navka, Mikhail Smirnov, Roman Kostomarov and Alex Siniavski
Buckley Recital Hall at Amherst College, Amherst, Massachusetts ensemble Barynya invited Legend of Russian immigration Gypsy singer ZHENYA SHEVCHENKO.
Ensemble Barynya entertained lavish party celebrating the American launch of Imperia Vodka with with 100 pounds of caviar and a 10,000-pound ice bar paid for by Russian billionaire Roustam Tariko at the Liberty Island. Scores of glass lanterns hung from the treetop canopy to create an ethereal atmosphere, while Russian belly dancers, fortunetellers, storytellers, and traditional musicians entertained. Later, guests noshed on such decadent Russian delicacies as carved whole roasted sturgeon with dill caviar cream, juniper-scented roast suckling pig, and beef Stroganoff at the dinner buffet. Tentation’s meal was followed by a 20-minute fireworks display by Grucci and a dessert of strawberries and chocolate, as well as an hourlong show from Duran Duran, who performed on a barge just off the island.
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pictures
Russian folk music and dance ensemble Barynya participated in 2005 Balalaika
and Domra Association of America conference in Madison, WI. We were proud to perform at the gala concert
with Judy Sherman (vocal), Victor Gorodinsky (balalaika contrabass) and Greg Harbar (accordion).
When The Best in entertainment business need true Russian flavor they call "Barynya" .
Ensemble participated in
Discovery Channel show "The Party Planner with David Tutera".
The theme of the party was "Doctor Zhivago Russian Palace".
David Tutera impressive client list includes Barbara Walters, the John F. Kennedy Center,
Elton John, the Rolling Stones, Tommy Hilfiger, and film premiere and celebrity parties,
including the 1998 and 2003 official post-Grammy Awards parties in New York.
David is also a regular entertaining expert on ABC's popular morning show The View.
