Filming Begins in Krasnoyarsk on a Documentary About the Life and Art of Dmitri Hvorostovsky

The production crew of the documentary film “Dmitri Hvorostovsky: The Russian Voice That Conquered the World” has arrived in the artist’s hometown.

On October 16, marking the birthday of the People’s Artist of the Russian Federation and Honorary Citizen of the Krasnoyarsk Region, Dmitri Aleksandrovich Hvorostovsky, the filming crew attended a flower-laying ceremony at the singer’s monument, which holds the urn with his ashes in its base. Production continued later that evening at the “Among Friends” Gala Concert.

According to the creators, Krasnoyarsk is the ultimate key location for the film, as this very city shaped and nurtured the legendary baritone. It was here in 1962 that the future global opera star was born to Alexander, a chemical engineer, and Lyudmila, a physician. In this city, he studied at the pedagogical college and later at the Institute of Arts under the legendary vocal coach Ekaterina Iofel, who played a pivotal role in refining his talent. Krasnoyarsk was also home to the theater where he made his professional debut—the Krasnoyarsk State Opera and Ballet Theatre.

While in Siberia, the production crew will meet with individuals who knew Hvorostovsky long before his global stardom: his former teachers, classmates, and early stage partners. Additionally, filming schedules include several staged reenactment scenes featuring professional actors.

Krasnoyarsk always held a sacred place in the singer’s heart. Even after achieving worldwide fame, Hvorostovsky constantly returned to his roots. He gave his final concert here on 02 June 2017—just five months before his tragic passing. Despite a shoulder injury and his rapidly declining health caused by a severe oncological illness, Dmitri Hvorostovsky still took the stage in a display of profound artistic courage.

Today, the Krasnoyarsk State Opera and Ballet Theatre, the local Institute of Arts, and the city’s international airport all proudly bear Dmitri Hvorostovsky’s name.

Production on this documentary tribute to the legendary Soviet and Russian baritone officially launched in September 2026. The final film will feature over 20 exclusive interviews with Hvorostovsky’s family, inner circle, and prominent colleagues. Among them are his close friend, conductor, and artistic partner Constantine Orbelian, opera star Aida Garifullina, Bolshoi Theatre soloist Dinara Alieva, and Dmitri’s close personal friend, attorney and author Pavel Astakhov. Beyond Krasnoyarsk, filming will take place on location in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Batumi, and several other cities.

The project is realized with the financial support of the Presidential Foundation for Cultural Initiatives. The documentary is produced by the “Paritet Film” Cinema Company, supported by the Krasnoyarsk Region Film Commission and the regional Ministry of Culture, with logistical and media assistance provided by “Yenisey Kino”.

The film is scheduled to premiere in 2027 on the Premier online streaming platform.

Photos by Yenisey Kino / Kultura24