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David GutmanSoviet actor, theatre figure, director
Date of Birth: 01.01.1884
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Content:
- Early Career and Theatrical Innovations
- Establishing Theater of Revolutionary Satire
- Founding of Moscow Satire Theater
- Leadership in Music Halls and Fleeing Censorship
- Wartime Contributions and Untimely Demise
- Cinematic Debut and Literary Recognition
- Filmography
Early Career and Theatrical Innovations
David Gutman began his career in the theater as an assistant director in 1903, eventually transitioning to the role of director in various theaters across Russia. A pioneer in the field of miniature theaters and revue performances, he invented the Pierrot mask for the iconic singer Alexander Vertinsky during World War I.
Establishing Theater of Revolutionary Satire
In 1920, Gutman became the director of the Theater of Revolutionary Satire (Tersat) in Moscow, alongside Mikhail Razumny. Initially focusing on short plays and political revues, TERSAT gradually transitioned to multi-act performances. However, it was disbanded in 1922 and its members merged with the Theater of the Revolution under Vsevolod Meyerhold's direction.
Founding of Moscow Satire Theater
In 1926, Gutman became the lead director of the Moscow Satire Theater. He assembled a renowned group of Soviet satirists, including Viktor Tipota, Nikolai Erdman, and Vladimir Mass, with whom he penned several successful plays. Concurrently, he directed performances at the Leningrad Satire Theater and the Moscow Operetta.
Leadership in Music Halls and Fleeing Censorship
From 1928 to 1929, Gutman served as the director of the Moscow Music Hall, collaborating with composer Konstantin Goleyzovsky to create innovative "attraction-revues." After the closure of music halls in 1938, Gutman returned to Moscow and established the Moscow Miniature Theater with Tipota.
Wartime Contributions and Untimely Demise
During World War II, Gutman founded the frontline theater "Yastrebok," which operated until 1942. In his later years, he faced challenges as a director and shifted to writing sketches, monologues, and vaudeville routines. He also participated in the All-Union Studio of Variety Art under Nikolai Smirnov-Sokolsky.
Cinematic Debut and Literary Recognition
Gutman made his film debut as an actor in 1926, appearing in Abram Room's "The Traitor." He later directed and co-directed several films, including "The Children of Captain Grant." Viktor Ardov's short story "The First Prize" was dedicated to Gutman's memory. The renowned director is buried at the Vagankovo Cemetery in Moscow.
Filmography
1926 - The Traitor1929 - New Babylon
1930 - Cities and Years
1930 - Conspiracy of the Dead
1932 - Return of Nathan Becker
1935 - Treasure of the Lost Ship
1936 - The Children of Captain Grant
1937 - Peter the First
