On the centenary of the outstanding actor, People’s Artist of the USSR Evgeny Leonov, the premiere of «The Elder Son» will take place at the Mark Zakharov Lenkom Theatre. Director Vladimir Pankov turns to the play by Alexander Vampilov, combining it with material from Evgeny Leonov’s memoir book «Letters to My Son.» The lead role in the production will be played by Evgeny Pavlovich’s son, Andrey Evgenyevich Leonov.
The role of Sarafanov in Vitaly Melnikov’s iconic film «The Elder Son» became one of the most iconic and beloved in Evgeny Leonov’s filmography. His character is a naive clarinetist whose kind nature paradoxically transforms him from a victim of a cruel prank into a person who finds love and care. Leonov created an image of a father that became a classic and resonated with millions of viewers. In real life, the father’s attitude towards his son was no less tender. In 1992, Evgeny Leonov’s book «Letters to My Son» was published; it contains real letters from the actor, who was often away. His lines reflect genuine paternal concern for what kind of person his beloved son will grow up to be.
