# Nikolay Cherkasov

> Soviet actor (1903-1966)

**Wikidata**: [Q713014](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q713014)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nikolay_Cherkasov)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/nikolay-cherkasov

## Summary
Nikolay Cherkasov was a Soviet actor renowned for his contributions to both stage and film, particularly under the socialist realism movement. Born in 1903, he became a prominent figure in Soviet cinema, starring in films that promoted communist values. His career spanned multiple decades, earning him numerous state honors.

## Biography
- **Born:** July 14, 1903
- **Nationality:** Soviet
- **Education:** Trained at the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts
- **Known for:** Leading roles in Soviet films and theater productions
- **Employer(s):** Mariinsky Theatre, Alexandrinsky Theatre, Tovstonogov Bolshoi Drama Theater, Bryantsev Youth Theatre
- **Field(s):** Acting (film and stage)

## Contributions
Nikolay Cherkasov's work included starring in notable Soviet films and stage productions that exemplified socialist realism. He was a key actor in films such as *The Youth of Maxim* (1934–1935) and *Peter the Great* (1941), which were instrumental in promoting Soviet ideology. His theatrical performances at prominent venues like the Mariinsky Theatre and Alexandrinsky Theatre further solidified his reputation as a leading Soviet actor. Cherkasov's career was marked by collaboration with influential directors and his ability to portray characters that aligned with the state's cultural agenda.

## FAQs
**What were Nikolay Cherkasov's most notable roles?**  
Cherkasov is best known for his roles in films like *The Youth of Maxim* and *Peter the Great*, as well as his stage work in Soviet theaters.

**Where did Cherkasov receive his training?**  
He trained at the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts, a prestigious institution in St. Petersburg.

**What political affiliations did Cherkasov have?**  
As a prominent Soviet actor, Cherkasov was associated with the Communist Party's cultural initiatives, though specific political roles are not detailed in the source material.

**What awards did Cherkasov receive?**  
He was honored with the Stalin Prize, Order of Lenin, and the title of People's Artist of the USSR, among others, recognizing his contributions to Soviet arts.

## Why They Matter
Nikolay Cherkasov's significance lies in his role as a cultural ambassador of the Soviet Union. Through his performances, he helped shape and disseminate socialist realism, a cornerstone of Soviet cultural policy. His work in film and theater not only entertained but also educated audiences on communist ideals, making him a vital figure in the Soviet arts scene. Without Cherkasov, the cinematic and theatrical landscape of the USSR would lack a key proponent of state-sanctioned art, impacting the broader cultural narrative of the era.

## Notable For
- **Awards:** Stalin Prize, Order of Lenin, People's Artist of the USSR
- **Theaters:** Performed at the Mariinsky, Alexandrinsky, and Tovstonogov Bolshoi Drama Theaters
- **Film Roles:** Starred in *The Youth of Maxim* and *Peter the Great*
- **Training:** Russian State Institute of Performing Arts
- **Era:** Prominent during the Stalinist period, embodying socialist realism in arts

## Body

### Early Life and Training
Nikolay Cherkasov was born on July 14, 1903, in the Russian Empire, which later became part of the Soviet Union. He pursued acting at the Russian State Institute of Performing Arts, a renowned institution in St. Petersburg, laying the foundation for his career in both theater and film.

### Career in Theater
Cherkasov's theatrical career was marked by engagements with prestigious Soviet theaters, including the Mariinsky Theatre, Alexandrinsky Theatre, Tovstonogov Bolshoi Drama Theater, and Bryantsev Youth Theatre. These affiliations underscored his versatility and prominence in the Soviet performing arts scene. His stage work aligned with the socialist realism movement, emphasizing themes that reflected Soviet life and values.

### Film Career
Transitioning to film, Cherkasov became a leading actor in Soviet cinema, starring in productions that promoted communist ideology. Notable films such as *The Youth of Maxim* (1934–1935) and *Peter the Great* (1941) showcased his ability to portray characters that resonated with the Soviet narrative. These roles cemented his status as a cultural icon of the era.

### Political and Cultural Influence
As a prominent figure in the Soviet arts, Cherkasov's work was intrinsically linked to the state's cultural agenda. His performances, both on stage and screen, served as vehicles for disseminating socialist ideals. This alignment with the regime's policies earned him recognition and awards, including the Stalin Prize and the Order of Lenin, highlighting his contribution to the Soviet cultural landscape.

### Honors and Legacy
Cherkasov's career was punctuated by numerous state honors, reflecting his significance in Soviet arts. Titles such as People's Artist of the USSR and awards like the Stalin Prize underscored his impact. His legacy extends beyond his performances, representing the intersection of art and politics in the Soviet Union. Cherkasov's death on September 14, 1966, marked the end of an era for Soviet cinema and theater, leaving behind a body of work that remains a testament to the socialist realism movement.

### Affiliations and Employers
Throughout his career, Cherkasov was affiliated with several key institutions:
- **Russian State Institute of Performing Arts:** His alma mater, where he honed his craft.
- **Mariinsky Theatre:** A pinnacle of Russian performing arts, where he contributed to notable productions.
- **Alexandrinsky Theatre:** Another esteemed venue that hosted his performances.
- **Tovstonogov Bolshoi Drama Theater and Bryantsev Youth Theatre:** Demonstrating his engagement with diverse theatrical platforms.

These affiliations not only showcased his talent but also his commitment to the Soviet cultural project, solidifying his position as a leading actor of his time.

## References

1. Integrated Authority File
2. Great Soviet Encyclopedia (1969–1978)
3. BnF authorities
4. Virtual International Authority File
5. CiNii Research
6. MusicBrainz
7. Find a Grave
8. Brockhaus Enzyklopädie
9. Gran Enciclopèdia Catalana
10. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
11. LIBRIS. 2012