Varvara Massalitinova was an American actor known for her roles in classic Russian theater and films. She gained fame for her performances in ‘Dead Souls’, ‘Alexander Nevsky’, and ‘Aelita, the Queen of Mars’.
Personal and Family Life
Varvara Osipovna Massalitinova was born on July 29, 1878, in Yelets, Russia. She had a brother, Nikolai Osipovich Massalitinov, who was also an actor-director. The Massalitinov family had a history of corpulence as both siblings were known to be overweight.
Theatrical Career
Massalitinova began her acting journey in an amateur theater club in Tomsk before moving to Moscow to formally study acting. She was a devoted member of the Maly Academic Theatre from 1901 until 1945, where she showcased her talent alongside many notable Russian actors. She became famous for her portrayal of Korobochka in ‘Dead Souls’ and took on several important roles in plays by Aleksandr Ostrovskiy.
Death and Legacy
Varvara Massalitinova passed away on October 20, 1945, in Moscow, Russia. She was honored as a People’s Artist of Russia for her significant contributions to theater and film. She was laid to rest in Novodevichy Cemetery in Moscow, a testament to her legacy in the arts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Детство Горького | 1938-09-27 | Akulina Ivanva Kashirin |
| Гроза | 1934-03-25 | Marfa Ignatovna Kabanova, her mother-in-law |
| Александр Невский | 1938-11-24 | Amelfa Timoferevna – Buslai’s Mother |
| В людях | 1939-09-12 | Akulina Ivanovna Kashirina |
| Господа Скотинины | 1927-01-10 | |
| Аэлита | 1924-09-24 | Neighbour at funeral |
| Морозко | 1924-04-09 | Wicked Old Lady |