Ventzislav Ivanov Kisyov was a renowned Bulgarian actor, artist, and intellectual, whose life was marked by numerous achievements in the fields of theater, literature, and education.
Born on July 17, 1946, in the charming town of Lyubimets, Haskovo district, Kisyov's early years were spent in Burgas, where he graduated from the German language school in 1965. This marked the beginning of his journey as a poet, as he joined the literary circle headed by Nedyalko Yordanov and began writing his first poems.
Kisyov's academic pursuits took him to the High Military Artillery University in Shumen, where he earned his degree in 1967. However, his true passion lay in the world of theater, and he went on to graduate from the National Academy for Theatre and Film Art in Sofia, Bulgaria in 1971, under the guidance of Professor Boyan Danovski.
As an actor, Kisyov made his debut in the Burgas Drama Theatre "Adriana Budevska" theater studios, where he honed his craft and began to make a name for himself. His early roles included Romeo in "Romeo and Juliet," directed by Leon Daniel, which marked the beginning of a lifelong friendship with his future wife, Kalina Popova.
Throughout his career, Kisyov was a stalwart presence on the Bulgarian stage, performing with various theater troupes, including the Vidin Theatre, Gabrovo Drama Theater, Theatre "Sofia," and State Satirical Theater "Aleko Konstantinov." In 1979, he joined the esteemed theater troupe "Tears and Laughter," where he would remain for the rest of his career.
In addition to his work as an actor, Kisyov was also a dedicated educator and director. From 1992 to 1999, he co-guided the children's theater school with Tamara Voice, and in 2005, he took on the role of director for "Tears and Laughter." During his tenure, he led the youth theater school, while Kalina Popova headed the child school.
As a writer, Kisyov was a prolific author of poetry books, short stories, essays, and theatre studies. His work was published in various newspapers, including "Pulse" and "Student Tribune."
Throughout his life, Kisyov was a respected public figure, known for his dedication to his craft and his tireless commitment to the world of theater. He remained a beloved figure in Bulgarian cultural circles until his passing, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
