For Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD – Back in January 1996, the newly built and nearly completed LuCille Tack Center for the Arts was presenting its first show. Set to perform was the Russian Balalaika Orchestra, on the final leg of its first United States tour. When called to alert them to the snowstorm expected to hit before show time, they said they’d be there “even if they had to put a plow on the bus.” For the tour, and the several hundred who came by snowmobile, skis, and vehicles destined to spend the night in a snowdrift, it was surely a night to remember.

In the past 22 years, this will be the third time Russian heritage has found the spotlight on the Tack Center stage. Helping renew the deep bond between Central Wisconsin audiences and the essence of this culture, Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival will perform at Spencer’s LuCille Tack Center for the Arts on Sunday, Feb. 11 at 2 p.m.

In this spectacular performance of songs, balalaika music, and folk dance, all are equally represented in authentic Russian style, language, and costumes. The company features conservatory graduates, professional Russian dancers, and renowned baritone, Nikolai Massenkoff.

Both Tsarist and Contemporary Russia hold influence over the music, which is further colored by the neighboring countries of Ukraine, Armenia, Georgia, and Moldova.

Tickets are available online at lucilletackcenter.com or call the Box Office at 715-659-4499.