Maria Vicks

Maria Vicks

Soviet operetta actress (lyric-coloratura soprano)
Date of Birth: 07.04.1910

Content:
  1. Maria Vikks: An Acclaimed Soviet Operetta Star
  2. Debut and Early Career
  3. Sverdlovsk Theater of Musical Comedy
  4. Lyric Heroine
  5. Soviet Roles
  6. Later Career and Legacy
  7. Awards and Recognition
  8. Merited Artist of the RSFSR (1942)

Maria Vikks: An Acclaimed Soviet Operetta Star

Early Life and Education

Maria Gustava Vikks was born on March 25, 1910, in Artemovsky, near Bodaibo, Irkutsk Oblast. Her father, a political exile from Estonia, instilled in her a love for the arts. Vikks began studying singing at the Irkutsk Gymnasium under O.N. Balabina. She later honed her skills with acclaimed teachers such as E.V. De-Vos-Soboleva, M.M. Umeystny, and Z.G. Tarasenko.

Debut and Early Career

Vikks made her stage debut in 1928 at the Irkutsk Drama Theater in Offenbach's "Périchole", showcasing her exceptional vocal abilities and charming stage presence. Throughout the 1920s and early 1930s, she performed with various touring troupes, gaining invaluable experience.

Sverdlovsk Theater of Musical Comedy

In 1933, Vikks joined the newly established Sverdlovsk Theater of Musical Comedy. She became a founding member of the ensemble and played a pivotal role in the theater's success. Vikks possessed a repertoire of over 120 roles, showcasing her versatility in both classical and Soviet operettas.

Lyric Heroine

Vikks rose to prominence as a lyric heroine, captivating audiences with her vibrant stage persona and soaring voice. She excelled in roles such as Helen in "La Belle Hélène" and Perichole in "Périchole" by Offenbach, Hanna Glawari in Lehár's "The Merry Widow", and Rosalinde in Strauss's "Die Fledermaus".

Soviet Roles

Vikks's talent extended beyond classical repertoire. She also excelled in Soviet works, bringing depth and emotion to characters such as Matryona in Kovner's "Bronze Bust" and Klementina in Dunayevsky's "Free as the Wind". Her portrayal of Barina Koltovskaya in Katzman's "Mark Beregovik" earned her a prestigious award at the All-Union Festival of Dramatic and Musical Theaters.

Later Career and Legacy

Vikks continued to captivate audiences at the Sverdlovsk Theater of Musical Comedy for over four decades. She became a symbol of the theater's excellence and inspired generations of artists. Vikks's artistry extended beyond the stage, as she authored the theatrical memoirs "Thank You, Memory", which was published in 2003. She passed away on April 19, 1990, leaving behind an indelible mark on the world of operetta.

Awards and Recognition

Maria Vikks received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including:

Merited Artist of the RSFSR (1942)

Stalin Prize, Second Degree (1946)
Order of Lenin (1953)
Order of the Red Banner of Labor
People's Artist of the RSFSR (1965)

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