The Maly Theatre in Moscow remained the professional center of Yury Solomin's life from the moment he joined the troupe in 1957 until his death in 2024. A fixture in both Soviet and Russian cultural spheres, he maintained a dual career as a prominent stage actor and a respected director, eventually assuming the role of art director in 1988.
Early Career and Education
Born in Chita in 1935, Solomin pursued his formal training at the M.S. Schepkin Higher Theatre School, graduating in 1957. Upon completing his studies, he immediately integrated into the Maly Theatre company. His early stage performances established his reputation, particularly his portrayal of Khlestakov in the 1966 production of The Government Inspector, directed by Igor Ilyinsky.
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Solomin became a recognizable figure in Soviet cinema, frequently cast as an imperial officer or in historical roles. His international profile grew significantly following his participation in the 1975 film Dersu Uzala, directed by Akira Kurosawa. This contribution to world culture later earned him the Order of the Rising Sun, 3rd class, from the Japanese government in 2011. Domestically, his role as Captain Koltsov in the 1969 mini-series The Adjutant of His Excellency secured him the Vasilyev Brothers State Prize of the RSFSR.
Political and Public Life
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Solomin engaged in governance and public policy. He served as the Minister of Culture of the RSFSR between 1990 and 1992. In later years, his public stance remained aligned with the Russian state, as evidenced by his support for government policies regarding Crimea in 2014 and 2015, and his endorsement of the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. He held various titles, including People's Artist of the USSR, awarded in 1988, and was named a Hero of Labour of the Russian Federation in 2020.
Fast facts
- Born: 1935, Chita
- Died: 2024, Moscow
- Education: M.S. Schepkin Higher Theatre School
- Career Start: 1957
- Primary Employer: Maly Theatre
- Ministerial Tenure: 1990–1992
- Burial Place: Troyekurovskoye cemetery
Questions readers ask
What was Yury Solomin's primary role at the Maly Theatre?
He served as the theatre's art director starting in 1988.
Did Solomin hold any government positions?
Yes, he served as the Minister of Culture of the RSFSR from 1990 to 1992.
Achievements
- Order of the Rising Sun, 3rd class — 2011
- Order of Honour — 2010
- Order of Friendship of Peoples — 1985
- Worked as actor, film director and theatre director
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