The actor, singer and director Nikolai Slichenko is not only a talented person, but also an effective manager. For many years he has been directing the Gypsy Theater Romen. There is no such cultural institution either in Europe or in America. For his work and creative achievements, Nikolai Alekseevich Slichenko was awarded the title People's Artist of the Soviet Union.
From collective farm to theater
The appearance on the stage of a bright and memorable artist sometimes happens completely unexpectedly. It was in this way that Nikolai Slichenko introduced himself to the grateful public. Few people know that in life, the actor had to endure difficult and even tragic periods. In a large gypsy family, Nikolai was born fifth in a row. When the boy turned 7 years old, the war began. Circumstances developed in such a way that before his eyes the Nazis shot his father. This event is forever engraved in the memory of the child.
In the postwar years, people in the territories liberated from the invaders had to work hard and hard. Both old and small ones were involved in the restoration of the destroyed economy. Kolya didn’t play off tasks. The collective farm had to plow, and sow, and look after the horses. Countrymen long remembered how a teenager supported them in work with cheerful songs and jokes. He knew many gypsy and Russian songs. He owned a guitar and danced. It was hard not to notice young talent. Older people in the village near Voronezh advised him to "go" to the capital.
Of course, human rumor carried rumors about the Gypsy Theater "Romen" to these places. Nikolai doubted for some time - you won’t get into a troupe without formation. But for a person at 16 there are no insurmountable obstacles. Slichenko came to Moscow and he was accepted into the auxiliary staff of the theater. From this moment begins his creative career. Yes, I had to thoroughly work in the crowd, to play episodic roles. A talented young man treated all errands with desire and a good mood.
