This performance, recorded live at the Bolshoi Opera in 1979, stars the great Russian bass Evgeny Nesterenko as Dosifei, the Old Believer at religious and psychological war with the new order, led by Prince Ivan Khovansky. The manipulative Khovansky is powerfully portrayed here by Alexander Vedernikov, another of the world’s greatest basses, little known outside of the Soviet Union. Marfa, one of Dosifei’s followers and a fortune teller, is sung by the legendary mezzo-soprano Irina Arkhipova in a performance of great authority and dignity. Russian opera at the Bolshoi is the genuine article and the remainder of the cast is equally impressive, from the mistrusting Prince Galitsyn of Evgeny Raikov to the clever, informing Shaklovity of Vladislav Romanovsky. The Bolshoi chorus and orchestra is conducted by Yuri Simonov.

Boris Godunov is a historical drama that tells the story of Boris Godunov, a Russian czar who rises to power and faces the challenges of ruling the country. As the boyar and leader of the nation, Boris navigates the complex politics and intrigue of Russian politics. Through his actions and decisions, he leaves a lasting impact on the country. The movie portrays the rise and fall of this influential figure in Russian history.

A historical opera about the life of Tsar Ivan Susanin, who sacrificed his life to save Tsar Mikhail Romanov from Polish invaders in 1612.