Getting to know the scene
From an early age, Volodya was interested in singing. At first he performed at home during holidays, singing for himself and alone. Later, during his school years, he was involved in amateur activities in a circle, not forgetting about singing. Noticing his passion in time, the mother decided to enroll her son in a specialized club. In the Palace of Pioneers, he performs on stage for the first time and falls in love with her.
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At the age of 14, he goes on vacation to the famous summer camp "Artek". There, Vladimir takes part in an international competition, where he performs the Buchenwald alarm. Young Vinokur wins it. For this victory he receives a gold medal, which is presented to him by the first cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. While at a summer camp, Vinokur meets Semyon Dunaevsky, who recognized the teenager’s abilities. Dunaevsky gave him very practical advice - not to practice vocals until the turning point for the teenager has passed and his voice has been established. Vladimir listened and, despite his parents’ misunderstanding, stopped singing.
Biography and personal life of Vladimir Vinokur
The biography and personal life of Vladimir Vinokur begins at the end of March 1948 in the hero city of Kursk. Where in the family of a hereditary builder and teacher of Russian language and literature, a baby hero was born, who would later be called Vova.
From an early age he grew up as a silent and withdrawn child, the reason for this was his physique. According to the recollections of his loved ones, he resembled a bun with small crooked legs. The boy had to play alone, because due to problems with his legs he could not run and jump like other children.
But after 14 years, it was as if he had been replaced. He began to look at life differently, began to joke and laugh a lot, which could not but please his parents.
Volodya found it difficult to study, except for music lessons. He constantly sang something, and his parents decided to send him to the choir at the Palace of Pioneers. Learning to sing was easy for Volodya. So he managed to take first place in the song competition and win a trip to the Artek children's camp, where he met Dunaevsky, who, having heard his voice, advised him not to sing anymore, since Volodya’s voice was breaking. In order not to completely spoil it, you must refrain from singing at least until you are 18 years old. The guy did just that, despite the fact that his parents asked him not to quit his studies.
After graduating from school, he enters a construction technical school, after which he works at a construction site, and in the evenings he studies vocals with a teacher.
At the age of 18, Vinokur was drafted into the army, and while still in military service, he submitted documents to GITIS, and after finishing his service he entered the first year.
While studying in his fourth year, he received an offer to join an operetta troupe, where he worked for several years.
After another performance in 1973, he met Yuri Nikulin, who invited him to try his hand at his circus in the parody genre. His performances always sold out, so after working for two years, Vladimir decides to start a career as a parodist. And he begins to perform with the group “Gems” as a conversational artist to warm up the audience.
In 1977, he became the winner of a competition for young talents, after which his career took off, and he became one of the performers performing for top officials of the state.
Since 1989, he has been the director of the parody theater, which he directs to this day. Over the past 20 years, he has managed to create an entire industry of humor and parody, his monologues are quoted. Always remaining a star, he does not forget about his personal life.
So in 1974, at a children's performance, he met the ballerina Tamara Permakova, and after several months of meetings, he decided to connect his life with her. Their marriage has lasted for more than 40 years, during which they managed to build a real strong family and raise a daughter, Anastasia.
Student years
Young Vladimir was very drawn to the stage, but at the insistence of his parents he entered a construction college. At the same time, he enrolls in the evening department of a music school, choosing the conducting and choral department. Having not yet received secondary education, Vladimir decides to try himself at the entrance exams at GITIS. The first three rounds of examination were easy for Vinokur, but it soon became clear that the young man did not have documents, and he was denied admission.
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After completing his studies in 1967, the young man was drafted into the army, where he was enrolled in a song and dance ensemble. At the same time as performing his military duties, Vladimir tries himself as an entertainer, soloist, and sings in a choir. During their service, the ensemble often went to perform in hospitals. Two years later, while being among the military personnel, Vinokur decided to try again to apply for admission to GITIS, and this time he succeeded. He was accepted.
Talent from birth
Vladimir Natanovich Vinokur was born on March 31, 1948 in the city of Kursk.
His parents were Nathan Lvovich Vinokur, who worked as a builder, and Anna Yulievna, who taught Russian language and literature at school. As the comedian’s relatives say, he began “performing” from early childhood. They put him on a chair, and the boy recited poems and sang songs with pleasure. During his school years, Vladimir began singing in the choir, where he soon became a soloist. In 1962, he was sent as the best soloist of the choir to the Artek pioneer camp. There he performed at an international competition and received the title of laureate.
After graduating from the eighth grade of high school, Vladimir, at the insistence of his father, entered the Kursk Assembly College, but at the same time as receiving the profession of an assembler, in the evenings he studied at the music school in the conducting and choral department. After graduating from technical school, the future artist worked for some time in construction and was drafted into the army. Vladimir served in the song and dance ensemble of the Moscow Military District.
Stage work
Since 1973, Vladimir has been working in the circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard. Somewhat later, he receives an invitation from the director of the Moscow Operetta Theater G.P. Anisimov, where Vinokur has been working for two years. In 1975, having received a recommendation from pianist M. Bank, he joined the then-famous Gems ensemble, where he performed parodies of recognizable personalities, singers and actors. Vladimir Vinokur, whose parodies became more and more famous and loved, understands that his career has begun to grow rapidly. Two years later, Vinokur becomes a laureate of the All-Russian Competition of Variety Artists, where he performs the famous monologue about Sergeant Major Kovalchuk, authored by Leonid Yakubovich. After this victory, Vladimir for the first time seriously thinks about the stage and starting a solo career.
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Soon Vladimir Natanovich Vinokur gets a job as a soloist at Mosconcert. Now he performs at large venues with a huge number of spectators, such as the Rossiya Concert Hall, the Variety Theater, the Kremlin Palace and others. He also takes part in a concert dedicated to the sixtieth anniversary of the founding of the USSR. Its popularity and demand is growing. Vinokur begins to be invited to holidays and concerts. He goes on tour abroad. Vladimir Vinokur, whose biography began in the city of Kursk, performs in the USA, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, Mexico, Germany, and Havana.
Film and television
But Vladimir Natanovich Vinokur did not get into the cinema right away. At first he worked on the voice acting of the short films “The Wolf and the Calf” and “The Last Wizards”. At the same time, he begins to be invited to appear in television programs. He took part in such famous programs as “Around Laughter” and “New Year’s Attraction”. At the same time, the artist began performing in the “Full House” program with numerous parodies. After the release of the program, comedian Vladimir Vinokur became more and more popular and recognizable on the streets. It was a stunning success.
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In 1986, Vladimir Vinokur, whose monologues were dissected into catchphrases and expressions, became co-host of the programs “Once Upon a Time in Autumn” and “Once Upon a Time in Winter.” This was a new experience for him. In 2003, the artist took part in the filming of the musical fairy tale “The Snow Queen”. The musical was directed by Maxim Papernik based on the fairy tale of the same name, which has not lost its popularity over the years. In the new film adaptation of the story, Vinokur played the chieftain of the robbers. “The Snow Queen” is a musical that was being prepared for the New Year celebrations; it premiered in December 2003. At the same time, Vladimir Natanovich Vinokur was invited to the jury of the “Voting KiViN” program, held in Jurmala.
Vladimir Vinokur's wife - Tamara Pervakova
The hero of this article met his chosen one at a children's play. Vladimir could not resist this beautiful girl and literally immediately invited her to a party that took place in the hostel.
This is how the romantic relationship between Vladimir and Tamara began. They continue to this day. The wedding took place in the mid-seventies. We've been together for about half a century. But their feelings are still just as tender and mutual. The marriage produced an only daughter, Anastasia, who followed in her mother’s footsteps and became a famous ballerina.
Vladimir Vinokur’s wife is Tamara Pervakova, now an actress. In the past she was a ballet dancer. I've been a grandmother for three years now. I am very happy with the new status. He tries to spend all his free time with his grandson. Together they walk in the fresh air. Tamara often spoils her grandson Fedya.
Vladimir Vinokur: films
In 1993, the first film was released, “Pistol with a Silencer,” in which Vladimir Natanovich played. Later he starred in other, no less striking films. The comedian's filmography includes more than ten different film roles. The actor remains true to his role, so his roles are mostly humorous.
How do we remember Vladimir Vinokur? His films became popular among people:
- "Road check";
- "The Snow Queen";
- "Pistol with a silencer";
- "Kingdom of Crooked Mirrors";
- "Gold fish";
- "War Romance";
- “Aww!”;
- "New Year's sms."
Vladimir Vinokur showed his grown-up grandson
Vladimir Vinokur // Photo: Instagram
Five years ago, Vladimir Vinokur’s daughter, Bolshoi Theater ballerina Anastasia Vinokur, married music producer Grigory Matveichev. In 2015, the couple had a son. The boy was named Fedor. For Vladimir Natanovich, Fedya is the only grandson, so it is not surprising that the artist tries to devote himself entirely to him. It may seem strange, but Anastasia gave this name to her son in honor of her father.
“When I was still living in Kursk and nothing predicted that my name - Vladimir Vinokur - would become famous, my brother had a son, my nephew, who was also named Volodya,” the artist shared. “I fed him and kept saying: “We must, Fedya, we must!” It was the film “Operation Y and Shurik’s Other Adventures” that was the box office leader. So, when the nephew grew up and began to talk, he said that there are many Vova Vinokurs in one family and let him remain Vova, and I will become Fedya. At his suggestion, my family began to call me that. From the army I wrote letters and signed myself Fedya. My brother called me Fedya until his last days, and my nephew still calls me that. Nastya, my daughter, decided to name her son after me. According to Jewish tradition, it is not customary to name a living relative by name. My brother made a mistake. But Nastya decided not to repeat the mistakes and still name the heir in honor of her grandfather. So Fyodor Grigorievich is growing up with us.”
Today, December 10, Fedya turned three years old. In connection with this event, Vladimir Natanovich congratulated his beloved grandson on his birthday and published his photo on the social network. Vinokur’s subscribers noted that the boy had grown noticeably. Someone began to claim that he was very similar to his famous grandfather.
“My grandson is three years old today! Live happily ever after, my dear friend! Of course, I would like to take you to school, attend your wedding, and see your great-grandchildren. Lots of plans! Grandma Toma and I will try our best!” — the 70-year-old artist wrote on Instagram.
By the way, Vladimir Vinokur and his wife Tamara Pervakova have been together for more than 40 years. And their story began in an unusual way. In 1974, Pervakova invited the artist to enter into a fictitious marriage. Vinokur needed Moscow registration, and it was important for her not to lose her home. At that time, none of them imagined that the “fake relationship” would develop over time into bright, sincere feelings.
Vladimir Vinokur about a terrible accident: “I was torn apart like a tobacco chicken”
For many years the couple dreamed of a child and now, after 12 years of marriage, they had a daughter, Anastasia. Over the years of their lives, Tamara Pervakova and Vladimir Vinokur had a lot: they could have separated, because Vladimir Natanovich was constantly on the road due to his occupation, and Pervakova devoted herself entirely to her family and daughter. Now, looking back, Vinokur is sure: they were able to save their family, first of all, thanks to the wisdom of his wife.
Political activity
At the age of 44, Vinokur was appointed advisor to the vice-president of the RSFSR for cultural affairs. However, during this period, misfortune happens to the artist - he gets into a serious accident while in Germany. Two of his close friends die, and he himself miraculously remains alive, but receives serious leg injuries. Doctors are even considering the option of amputation.
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But at this moment his close friend Joseph Kobzon comes to his aid, who facilitates the artist’s transfer to a Russian clinic, where Vladimir is put back on his feet. After this incident, Vinokur begins to love life even more and devotes himself entirely to his profession.
Personal life
For many years now, Vladimir Natanovich has been a happy family man. The comedian met his future wife, ballerina Tamara Pervakova, in 1973, when he was 25 years old. Vinokur's chosen one is 5 years younger than him (she was 20). Vladimir fell in love at first sight, but Tamara did not immediately reciprocate his feelings.
The couple met at work. They both played in the play for children “Don’t Hit the Girls.” Tamara was in the role of a clockwork doll, and Vladimir was in the role of a loser. The comedian immediately liked the girl, but Tamara did not pay attention to her colleague. Despite the courtship of Vladimir Natanovich, the girl remained unapproachable. The matter was decided by chance.
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Vladimir received an offer to work in one of the theaters in Moscow, and he happily agreed, but the question arose about the comedian’s lack of registration. Tamara, who at that time was caring for her sick grandmother, also had problems with housing. Soon the girl herself invited Vinokur to sign, but the marriage had to be fictitious. The comedian in love was not satisfied with this option, and at his insistence, Tamara nevertheless agreed to register their relationship and try to create a real family. In June 1974, the couple got married. The celebration took place in the Rossiya concert hall.
However, the newly-made spouses faced another problem - the lack of children. After twelve years of trying and waiting, the couple finally had a daughter. Tamara was 32 years old, and Vladimir was 37. For the sake of raising her long-awaited daughter, Pervakova decided to leave her career and said goodbye to ballet forever.
Over time, the artist, as he promised his future wife, became a famous comedian. The daughter of Tamara and Vladimir decided to follow her mother’s example. In 2003, she graduated from the Choreographic Academy and began working at the Bolshoi Theater. And in 2020, Anastasia gave birth to a son, Fyodor, and Vladimir Natanovich finally became a grandfather.
Vladimir Vinokur: “Mom died in my arms”
Vladimir Vinokur
71-year-old Vladimir Natanovich often admits that he owes everything to his mother. Alla Yulievna always believed in her son’s creative potential and supported him in the most difficult periods of his life. She watched all the episodes of Full House with his participation, after which she could make critical comments.
In recent years, the woman’s health has worsened. The artist hoped to celebrate his mother’s centenary, but it didn’t work out: on August 6, 2018, Alla Yulievna died at the age of 96. “Mom left at night, died in my arms. She then said: “Son, don’t be too sad, don’t go to the cemetery often, don’t worry. We will all protect you, we will watch,” the comedian shared his memories.
The artist’s mother has always been his main fan
Let us remember that Vinokur’s father passed away back in 1995. It was this test that broke Alla Yulievna. After the death of her beloved man, she fell into depression, but for the sake of her sons Boris and Vladimir she pulled herself together.
When the eldest son died in 2010, Vladimir Natanovich and his family became the main support for Alla Yulievna. Vinokur’s mother lived in a neighboring house, so the comedian visited her every morning.
“I am still drawn to this apartment. When I pass her entrance, I feel sad. I lost my last loved one. I don’t erase my mother’s, father’s, brother’s numbers on my phone. I think that numbers should not be erased,” Vinokur shared.
Between two ballerinas - with his wife and daughter
During the difficult period, the artist was supported by his wife Tamara and daughter Anastasia. Vladimir Natanovich never hid the fact that in his youth he did not have enough time for a child. Due to constant tours, he rarely saw Nastya, so now he is trying to compensate for the lack of attention when communicating with his grandson.
Four-year-old Fyodor has long become a companion for his grandfather, with whom he can play and discuss plans for the future. “For me he is Fedka, and for him I am Vovka. It's such an amazing connection. Now I tour less, so I have the opportunity to watch my grandson grow up. I’m very proud that my wife and I raised a daughter who became a soloist of the Bolshoi Theater and a good mother,” the artist admitted on the air of the “Fate of a Man” program.
The daughter of Vladimir Vinokur officially divorced her husband
Vladimir Natanovich is sure that the longing for his mother will never go away, but he intends to live and work further. Spectators, who are always happy to see a comedian on stage, also inspire him to new creative achievements.
Photo: Legion-Media, Instagram
Friendship
Lev Leshchenko has been Vladimir’s close friend and colleague for a long time. They met more than thirty years ago. After a while, they created a joint number “Levchik and Vovchik”, authored by Arkady Khait. The premiere of the number took place at Gennady Khazanov’s birthday, and from that moment their pop duet has been popular.
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Interesting facts from the life of V. N. Vinokur
- The expression “Whoever doesn’t smoke or drink will die healthy” was first used by Vinokur in an issue about A. Papanov. The author of the now catchphrase was Leonid Yakubovich.
- On the advice of Vladimir Natanovich, Ilya Klyaver began to use his wife’s surname as a pseudonym.
- Inviting Vinokur to the Gems ensemble, the Minister of Culture set a fairly high salary for the artist, which was unusual for that time. When conducting checks on illegal income in the entertainment industry, the prosecutor’s office became interested in the comedian’s high salary, and he had to give explanations on this issue.
Thus, Vladimir Vinokur, whose biography began in the small town of Kursk in a simple family of a teacher and a builder, having gone through a long and difficult path of professional development, gained the love of the public and became a world-famous personality.
