Evald Valter Legend of Latvian theatre and cinema Date of Birth: 02.04.1894 Country: Latvia

1. Ewald Valters: A Legendary Figure in Latvian Theater and Cinema
2. From Soldier to Stage
3. Moscow and Latvia: A Path to Renown
4. A Multifaceted Artist
5. "Red Army Man" and Stalwart Defender
6. Celebrated Stage Roles
7. Master of the Episode
8. On the Silver Screen
9. An Enduring Legacy

Ewald Valters: A Legendary Figure in Latvian Theater and Cinema

Ewald Valters, the oldest actor in Latvia, was a legend of both theater and cinema, celebrating his 100th birthday on stage. Known as the "King of Episodes," he starred in numerous films including "A Stranger in the Village," "Servants of the Devil," and "The Attack on the Secret Police."

From Soldier to Stage

Born in 1898, Valters played his first role amidst the chaos of World War I, serving as a sharpshooter in the Tsarist army. In 1917, he performed in regimental theater, playing multiple roles including a satirical character.

Moscow and Latvia: A Path to Renown

In 1920, Valters enrolled in the "Creativity" studio in Moscow, where he studied under the legendary Evgeny Vakhtangov. Three years later, he joined the "Skatuve" studio for Latvian actors, where he honed his skills with renowned masters such as Boris Radion and Boris Shchukin.

A Multifaceted Artist

Returning to Latvia, Valters became an active force in the theater, acting, directing, and organizing. He translated 20 Molière plays and 412 LaFontaine fables from French to Latvian.

"Red Army Man" and Stalwart Defender

During the fascist era, Valters earned the nickname "Red Army Man" not only for his past military service but also for his unwavering defense of progressive drama and his reverence for Russian and world classics.

Celebrated Stage Roles

On stage, Valters played iconic characters such as Prince Calaf in "Princess Turandot," Mephistopheles in "Faust," Tartuffe in "Tartuffe," and Schastlivtsev in "The Forest."

Master of the Episode

After the war, Valters joined the Rainis Theater, where he excelled as a virtuoso of small roles. His most memorable performances included the Trumpeter in "Yegor Bulychev and Others," Kukufeller in "The Flowering Desert," and the Deaf Man in "The Widow Colonel, or Doctors Don't Know Everything."

On the Silver Screen

Valters also appeared in numerous films, often in brief but memorable cameos. His distinctive features, bushy eyebrows, and long nose made him instantly recognizable in his homeland. In Russia, he was best known for roles in "A Stranger in the Village," "Servants of the Devil," and "The Son-in-Law Mizhuyev."

An Enduring Legacy

Valters believed that old age only came to those who lost their courage. He celebrated his centenary on stage, and upon his passing, grateful spectators erected a monument in his honor—the only one in Latvia dedicated to an actor. Awarded the title of National Artist of Latvia, his legacy remains as an inspiration to generations of Latvian performers.