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Alli-VadIllusionist
Date of Birth: 30.06.1895
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Content:
- Early Life and Military Service
- Artistic Career and the Red Army
- Transition to Illusion
- Success with "Alli-Vad"
- Circus Innovations and Awards
- Post-Retirement Activities
- Recognition and Legacy
- Literary Contributions
- - "Magic Tricks for Everyone" (1962)
Early Life and Military Service
Alexander Alexeyevich Vadimov-Markelov, known by his stage name Alli-Vad, was born on June 30, 1895, in the Nizhny Novgorod province of Russia. He attended a real school in Nizhny Novgorod before joining the army in 1915 to fight in World War I. After suffering a concussion, he was discharged in 1918.
Artistic Career and the Red Army
From 1918 to 1921, Vadimov volunteered for the Red Army and served as an organizer, artist, and director for the 30th and 25th Chapaev divisions. He also founded the trade union "Arti-Foto-Kin" in 1919, for which he received an honorary award in 1924.
Transition to Illusion
In 1927, Vadimov traveled to Berlin and studied illusionism at Konrad Horstner's "Academy of Magical Arts." He returned to the USSR and created the illusion act "Alli-Vad," where he performed as an Indian, a popular trend at the time.
Success with "Alli-Vad"
From 1927 to 1931, Alli-Vad toured the USSR with his troupe, gaining immense popularity. In 1931, he joined the Soviet Circus system and continued to perform. Vadimov devised innovative illusions, including "Tambourine," "Sarcophagus," and "Wine Barrel."
Circus Innovations and Awards
As a circus performer, Vadimov's original and captivating illusions earned him accolades. He was credited with being the first to perform illusions in the ring rather than on a stage. He also created the first political buffoonery illusion number in the country.
Post-Retirement Activities
Upon retiring from the circus in 1956, Vadimov shared his expertise with students and magic enthusiasts. He authored several books on illusionism and was featured in an article in the "Little Encyclopedia of the Circus."
Recognition and Legacy
Throughout his career, Vadimov received numerous awards and recognition. He was a member of the "Magical Circle" in East Germany and the "International Brotherhood of Magicians" in the USA. Vadimov passed away on March 5, 1967, and is buried in the Vagankovo Cemetery in Moscow.
Literary Contributions
Vadimov penned several books on illusionism, including:- "Magic Tricks for the Club Scene" (1959)
- "The Art of Illusion" (1959)
- "From Ancient Magicians to Modern Illusionists" (1966, second edition 1979)
- "Magic Tricks for Everyone" (1962)
- "The Illusionist's Repertoire" (1967)Translations of Vadimov's works were published in Czech and Polish.
