On July 10, as part of the celebration of Belgium’s National Day, a creative evening by actor, poet, and singer-songwriter Vadim Pyankov titled “My Belgian Odyssey” took place at the Russian House in Brussels. In an atmosphere of chamber theatre and live interaction, the audience immersed themselves in a unique poetic and musical world created at the crossroads of Russian and Belgian cultures.

The evening opened with a welcome address by Vera Bunina, Director of the Russian House in Brussels, who reminded the audience of the historical significance of Belgium’s National Day. This major national holiday has been celebrated annually on July 21 since 1890 and commemorates an important milestone in the country’s history — the accession of Belgium’s first monarch, Leopold I. On that day in 1831, he took the oath of allegiance to the Belgian Constitution before Parliament, officially becoming the king of the newly independent state.

The life of King Leopold I is a vivid example of how closely the European ruling dynasties were intertwined with the Russian imperial family. Before ascending the Belgian throne, Prince Leopold George Christian Frederick of Saxe-Coburg had strong ties to Russia: at the age of just eight, he was appointed a lieutenant colonel in the Russian Imperial Guard, and by twelve, he had reached the rank of general. Moreover, he was married to Grand Duchess Charlotte, daughter of Emperor Paul I of Russia, who took the name Elizabeth Alexeievna after their wedding. Although their union was short-lived, it became an important chapter in the history of dynastic alliances in Europe.

These facts not only highlight the historical depth of the holiday but also form a cultural bridge between Russia and Belgium — a meaningful symbol that added depth to the creative atmosphere of the evening.

Vadim Pyankov, who lived and worked in Belgium for many years and now resides in Russia, presented his new program featuring original songs written over the years he spent in Belgium. The title “My Belgian Odyssey” symbolically reflects the artist’s personal creative journey — from his first steps in a new cultural environment to a deep emotional connection with Belgian cities and their poetic essence.

The evening’s program included compositions set to the verses of both Belgian and Russian poets — Paul Verlaine, Maurice Maeterlinck, Alexander Blok, Jean Borrein, and others. Among the performed songs — “Brussels Boulevards,” “Ostend Beaches,” “Night Brussels,” “Nocturne,” “I Love,” and more — each was presented not merely as a musical number but as a vivid scene inspired by the streets, quays, and evening lights of Belgian cities.

The emotional depth of the evening was enhanced by Pyankov’s interpretations of songs by Jacques Brel and Salvatore Adamo, where he revealed the full range of his vocal and dramatic talent. The performances were accompanied by video projections that deepened both the visual and emotional impact, creating an atmosphere of introspective travel and personal memories.

Between musical pieces, the artist shared personal stories about his first impressions of Belgium — of wonder, discovery, longing, and inspiration. These revelations added warmth and sincerity to the evening, helping the audience better understand Pyankov’s creative nature and his affection for a country that became his second home.

Following the performance, there was a meet-and-greet with the audience and an autograph session, where guests could purchase CDs and personally thank the artist for an unforgettable evening.

The event became a vivid example of cultural dialogue, once again confirming that art knows no borders — music and poetry are universal languages that can unite people of different cultures and traditions.