Comedy Duo Gromov and Milich. Soviet Variety Theater Promotional Portrait Flysheet. [ca. 1920s–1930s]

Item #1616

Single-sheet promotional flysheet printed in black on buff paper; 23 × 26 cm. Blank verso. Very good. Light overall toning consistent with age, a few unobtrusive handling creases, and a short closed tear at the upper margin.

A striking promotional flysheet for the Soviet comedy duo Gromov and Milich, advertising their stage act simply as "Satire and Humor." The duo consisted of Arkadii Mikhailovich Gromov (1896–1973) and Vladimir Samoilovich Milich (1885–1965), both natives of Odessa who began performing together in 1916 at the Odessa miniature theater Ulybka ("Smile"). They soon became one of the best-known Soviet satirical kupletisty (comic couplet performers), touring extensively throughout the USSR with topical sketches and musical satire. Gromov appeared in the traditional role of the "red clown" (ryzhii kloun), while Milich served as the "white clown" (belyi kloun) and straight man. During the Second World War they performed for Soviet troops at the front, earning particular popularity with patriotic wartime numbers.

Price: $100.00