"'Artek' is a whole country": Oleg Gazmanov spoke about his childhood at "Artek"
A
celebratory concert dedicated to the centenary of the "Artek"
International Children's Centre took place at the National Centre RUSSIA on
June 4. Guests of the anniversary celebration included representatives from 89
regions of Russia. Among them were education ministers, heads of constituent
entities of the Russian Federation, children recognized as "Artek"
stars in different years, veterans of the "Artek" International
Children's Centre, representatives of foreign delegations and performers.
The event
launched a major festive marathon dedicated to the camp's anniversary, which is
celebrated on June 16. The culmination of the celebrations will take place at "Artek"
itself.
The concert
programme was opened by People's Artist of Russia Oleg Gazmanov and the children's
ensemble Domisolka, who performed the "Song of Friendship."
As Oleg
Gazmanov recounted, he still keeps a pioneer neckerchief signed by members of
his group.
"'Artek'
is a unique pioneer camp, a whole country. I was fortunate to visit 'Artek' in
my time. I have kept a relic — a pioneer neckerchief that our group signed.
There are Azerbaijani, Armenian, Georgian, Latvian and other languages. All our
boys and girls who were there signed it. I treasure this neckerchief,"
shared Oleg Gazmanov.
The artist
emphasized that the infrastructure of the legendary children's camp is now in
excellent condition.
"I am
so happy that 'Artek' is now in such excellent condition, it is undoubtedly the
best camp in the world. And if any foreigners get there, along with our children,
they are amazed by the level and space. The best place in Crimea is at 'Artek',"
noted the People's Artist.
On June 16,
2025, the "Artek" International Children's Centre will celebrate its
100th anniversary. Earlier, thematic photo expositions were held in the State
Duma and the Federation Council. An important event was the issuance of a
decree by President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin awarding the "Artek"
personnel the Order of Honour.
