Anatoly Leonidovich Durov

Anatoly Leonidovich Durov – a Russian circus performer, clown and animal trainer. Founder of the Durov circus dynasty. At the age of ten Anatoly Durov entered the First Cadet Corps, but was soon expelled for poor academic performance and a passion for acrobatics. At sixteen he ran away from home and joined Vainstock's troupe. From 1880 he performed in the circus as a tightrope walker, trapeze acrobat, and later as a clown.

 

Durov quickly gained popularity and became one of the most sought-after and highest-paid circus artists in Russia. International recognition came to him in 1890 after successful tours in Austria, Germany, Spain, France and Italy. In 1901 he acquired a house and estate on the outskirts of Voronezh, opened a museum-panopticon there and led tours for the townspeople. In 1912 Durov made his debut as a director and filmed "The War of the 20th Century." He also appeared as an actor in the films "Gold, Tears and Laughter" and "Napoleon Inside Out." Anatoly Durov suddenly died of pneumonia while on tour in Mariupol.