Russian pop singer Larisa Dolina has decided to take New Year's Eve off, telling television network Fifth Channel that she is not going to work on the holiday.
The People's Artist of Russia clarified that while she plans to perform during the wider New Year holidays, she prefers to spend the night of January 1 at home in the company of family and friends.
In Russia, New Year's Eve is traditionally the most lucrative date on the entertainment calendar. Celebrated pop stars frequently command enormous fees for private corporate bookings and late night appearances on televised holiday galas, making working through the early hours of January 1 an established industry routine.
Holiday preparations in Moscow
Dolina noted that she had been surprised to see festive decorations already set up across the capital in late autumn. The singer explained that she adheres to her own annual schedule, decorating her New Year tree every year on December 1.
Selecting presents for loved ones also occupies much of her focus. Dolina explained that buying gifts for friends and the people she loves is deeply important to her, describing gift selection as a special matter that she takes very seriously.
Dolina, who was awarded the prestigious title of People's Artist of Russia in 1998, is one of the country's most celebrated vocalists, with a career spanning several decades across pop and jazz music.
Defense of Philipp Kirkorov
Her holiday comments come shortly after she publicly defended fellow Russian pop singer Philipp Kirkorov following a controversial concert in the Siberian city of Tyumen, where he felt unwell during the performance.
In Dolina's view, members of the public had become bitter toward the performer. She pointed out that although Kirkorov could have cancelled the concert, he believed he had an obligation to go out to the spectators who were waiting for him.
Although Dolina will not take the stage when midnight arrives on December 31, she confirmed that fans will still see her during the holiday season, with performances planned across the wider New Year period.
