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Konstantin ParakonevPeople's Artist of the Ukrainian SSR (1979)
Date of Birth: 08.09.1920
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Early Life and Family
- Parents:
- Education and Debut
- Life Under Occupation
- Post-War Challenges and Artistic Breakthrough
- Collaboration with Mykhailo Donets
- Recognition and Obstacles
- Leaving Kirovohrad
- Triumph and Recognition
- Legacy
Early Life and Family
Born:September 8, 1920, in the village of Volodymyrivka, present-day Kirovohrad Raion, Ukraine
Parents:
Father: Iosif Parakoń, an Orthodox priestMother: Name unknown
Repression and Displacement
Following the Soviet government's anti-religious campaign, Iosif Parakoń was arrested and executed in 1937. To protect her son from potential persecution, Konstantin's mother placed him with relatives in Zinovevsk (present-day Kropyvnytskyi).
Education and Debut
After graduating high school, Konstantin Parakońyev (his surname altered to conceal his family history) enrolled at the Kyiv Institute of Theatrical Art. Upon graduating, he joined the theater in his hometown of Kirovohrad. His debut performance was as Khalyava in Mark Kropyvnytskyi's play "Wii" in October 1942.
Life Under Occupation
During the German occupation of Kirovohrad, Parakońyev remained in the city. He continued to perform at the theater, which was controlled by the occupying forces. This decision would later cloud his career.
Post-War Challenges and Artistic Breakthrough
Despite his talent, Parakońyev faced discrimination due to his non-membership in the Communist Party and his association with the Nazis during the war. He was often relegated to minor roles. However, his performance as the Kobzar in Mykola Hohol's "Taras Bulba" in 1951 marked the beginning of his artistic breakthrough.
Collaboration with Mykhailo Donets
Parakońyev collaborated with director Mykhailo Donets on several productions, including "Marusia Bohuslavka" (1960). His portrayal of Khan Giray was particularly acclaimed.
Recognition and Obstacles
In the 1960s, Parakońyev's career flourished. He directed several plays and delivered acclaimed performances, but his aspirations to become a full-fledged director were thwarted by repeated reports of his alleged collaboration with the Nazis.
Leaving Kirovohrad
Tired of the constant accusations, Parakońyev left Kirovohrad in 1967 and joined the Zaporizhzhia Ukrainian Musical-Dramatic Theater named after Mykhailo Shchors.
Triumph and Recognition
In 1970, Parakońyev received the prestigious State Prize of Ukraine named after Taras Shevchenko for his portrayal of Yaroslav the Wise in Ivan Kocherga's play. He was finally awarded the title of People's Artist of the Ukrainian SSR in 1979.
Legacy
Konstantin Iosifovich Parakońyev left an indelible mark on Ukrainian theater. Known for his commanding presence, resonant voice, and exceptional dance skills, he was a true people's artist who overcame adversity to achieve greatness. He died on March 29, 1987, and was buried in Zaporizhzhia.
