Isai Spector Soviet and Russian theatre figure, actor Date of Birth: 05.05.1916

1. Childhood and Youth
2. Theatrical Beginnings
3. Education and Early Career
4. Vakhtangov Theater Career
5. Wartime Heroism
6. Post-War Career
7. Personal Life
8. Death

Childhood and Youth

On May 5, 1916, Isai Spector was born in Yekaterinburg, Perm Governorate, to Isaac Spector. In 1930, after graduating from high school, Isai, driven by his theatrical aspirations, moved to Moscow, where his father had been transferred on a research assignment.

Theatrical Beginnings

In 1931, Isai joined the Realistic Theater under the experimentalist director Nikolai Okhlopkov. He then had a brief stint at the studio of the 2nd Moscow Art Theater (1934-1936) before finding a permanent home at the Vakhtangov Theater.

Education and Early Career

In 1936, along with Yuri Lyubimov and Yuri Alekseev-Meskhiev, Isai enrolled in the studio at the Vakhtangov Theater, which later became known as the "Pike." During his studies, he led a production of Maxim Gorky's "The Philistines," playing the role of a 50-year-old relative of the protagonist.

Vakhtangov Theater Career

Upon his arrival at the Vakhtangov Theater, Isai quickly became a central figure, uniting both the younger and older generations of actors around him. He played various roles in the theater's productions, including "Don Quixote," "The Teacher," and "Princess Turandot."

Wartime Heroism

During the Great Patriotic War, Isai formed and led a frontline brigade, touring and performing for active troops. For his tireless efforts, he rose to the position of director of the Vakhtangov Theater's frontline branch.

Post-War Career

After the war, Isai became the deputy director and later the managing director of the Vakhtangov Theater. His leadership and administrative skills led to successful tours in France, Greece, and Yugoslavia, earning him the nickname "impresario number one" abroad.

Personal Life

Isai's marriage to actress Yulia Borisova was a defining moment in his life. They met by chance on a street near the theater and began a secret affair. Despite Borisova's engagement to another actor, she eventually left him to be with Isai. Their son, Alexander Borisov, was born in 1950.

Death

On April 13, 1974, Isai Spector passed away suddenly from a heart attack. He was deeply mourned by his family, friends, and the theater community. His legacy continues to inspire generations of theater professionals.