Alexei Kuznetsov, a renowned actor and director associated with the Vakhtangov Theater, has passed away, per the theater’s press office.
He dedicated more than fifty years to the stage, bringing to life around fifty roles. Among his memorable performances were Mozart in the production Little Tragedies and Truffaldino in Princess Turandot, along with many other characterizations that captivated audiences over the decades.
Beyond acting, Kuznetsov contributed as an assistant director at the Vakhtangov Theater. His collaboration extended to productions such as Artyom, Election, Old Walls, Gentlemen Glembai, and Big Magic, shaping the creative path of the company through his attentive work behind the scenes.
In cinema, Kuznetsov appeared in films dating back to 1954, including Abitur and We Met Somewhere, when he was still a teenager. Some of his on screen roles left a lasting impression on viewers, notably Kirsanov Sr. in Fathers and Sons and D Artagnan in Yungvald-Khilkevich’s adaptation D Artagnan and the Duke of Buckingham, performances that remain part of Russia’s cinematic memory.
Kuznetsov also shared his expertise with younger generations by teaching at the local Shchukin School, where he studied in the stage speech department before turning to lifelong performance. His voice work extended into dubbing and audiobook narration, enriching Russian-language media for listeners of all ages.
According to the theater’s press service, his life was defined by work, creativity, and an enduring devotion to the theater and to the people who fill its audience with life. The theater described him as a wonderful, meticulous, and handsome figure who contributed greatly to its cultural fabric.
Earlier in his career, Kuznetsov made an impact as a member of the acting community and remained a respected figure among colleagues and students alike. His legacy includes both the onstage magic he created and the mentorship he offered to aspiring performers, echoing through the institutions and performances he helped shape.
The theater’s colleagues remember his presence as one of quiet strength and warm professionalism, a person who approached every role and every rehearsal with sincerity and care. His contributions spanned decades, leaving an imprint on the company’s history and on the generations who trained, performed, and watched him embody a wide spectrum of characters.