Anthony Nikolchev's life story unfolded in California's Bay Area, where he was fortunate enough to be mentored by his long-time friend and guide, Yuri Kordonsky, a direct descendant of the esteemed Konstantin Stanislavsky's training lineage.
Anthony's journey in professional theatre began in the vibrant city of Chicago, where he had the privilege of collaborating with renowned organizations, including the esteemed Lookingglass and XIII Pocket Theatre. It was during this period that he forged a lasting and meaningful bond with actor Stephen Louis Grush, who served as the artistic director of XIII Pocket Theatre, and was subsequently welcomed as an ensemble member.
Anthony's inaugural solo performance, penned entirely by his own hand, made its debut in the vibrant city of Chicago, weaving a poignant narrative that skillfully captured the poignant tale of his Bulgarian father's daring escape from the suffocating grip of communism. This critically acclaimed performance, which garnered widespread acclaim, served as a catalyst for Anthony's burgeoning career, subsequently earning him an esteemed invitation to tour at the prestigious Yerevan Theatre Festival in Armenia, a milestone moment that left an indelible mark on his life's journey.
Anthony's life took a profound turn, driven by the profound impact of his experiences, which led him to make the bold decision to sell all his possessions and embark on a five-year long, globe-trotting adventure. This odyssey took him to the culturally rich and historically significant regions of Central Europe, where he delved deep into the vibrant cultural heritage and avant-garde theatre practices that thrived in these parts of the world.
During this period, Anthony had the opportunity to perform his original solo works, as well as other plays, on some of the most prestigious stages in the world. His performances took him to the iconic cities of Moscow, Warsaw, London, and to numerous towns and villages throughout the United Kingdom, Germany, Poland, Armenia, Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia.
Through his performances, Anthony aimed to share his unique perspective and artistic vision with audiences from diverse backgrounds, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the complexities and nuances of human experience. His journey not only allowed him to hone his craft as a performer, but also enabled him to connect with people from all walks of life, forming lasting bonds and creating unforgettable memories along the way.
Anthony has garnered numerous accolades for his outstanding one-man shows, with two notable Best Actor awards at the prestigious United Solo Festival in New York City being a testament to his exceptional talent.
His performances have been met with widespread critical acclaim, with many esteemed critics describing them as "tour de force" productions that showcase his remarkable skill and artistry.
Moreover, his work has been praised as "brilliant" in its execution, with a "formidable" presence that leaves a lasting impression on audiences.
Furthermore, his live shows have been characterized as "breathless" in their intensity and emotional resonance, a true testament to his dedication to his craft.
In addition to his work as a performer, Anthony is also a prolific playwright, having written several professionally produced plays that have been well-received by audiences and critics alike.
He regularly collaborates with other talented artists, including the accomplished dancer/choreographer Vivien Wood, and members of the renowned Polish theatre ensemble, Studio Matejka.
These collaborations have resulted in a diverse range of creative projects that showcase his versatility and ability to work effectively with others to produce high-quality artistic endeavors.
Anthony's illustrious career has been marked by numerous accolades, including a trifecta of Best Actor awards garnered from esteemed theatre and film festivals, underscoring his exceptional talent and versatility in both the stage and screen arenas. His impressive body of work has spanned both sides of the Atlantic, with credits in the US and Europe, showcasing his remarkable range and adaptability as a performer. Currently, Anthony is dedicated to paying it forward, serving as a faculty member at the California Institute for the Arts School of Theater, where he has the privilege of mentoring and guiding the next generation of artists, imparting his valuable expertise and insights to the rising stars of tomorrow.
