>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

The Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival is coming to the Elgin Opera House.

Nikolai Massenkoff, along with a balalaika ensemble, soloists and dancers will perform at 7 p.m. March 15, presenting the Russian people in song, dance and music.

"Massenkoff has an astonishing voice and charisma," said the Chautauquan (N.Y.) Daily. The Russian press has said of him, "We could listen forever to his interpretation of our native songs."

A press release by Southwest Arts and Entertainment says "Think of a big, warm, resonant, Russian teddybear. He sings, dances and entrances. And thunders."

Schooled in classical music, dance and drama, Massenkoff has studied with such masters as Tito Gobbi, and performed around the world.

The balalaika ensemble features individual artists in solo selections who are graduates of Russian music conservatories. The Russian Souvenir Dancers perform Ukrainian, Moldavian, Armenian, Gypsy, Jewish and Russian dances.

The company has performed at Carnegie Hall in New York City, at the opening of the Olympics and given over 100 performances at the Epcot Center in Florida.

Tickets, at $20 and $25, are available at the Union County Chamber of Commerce and at the Opera House. For information call 437-3456.