Mihai Volontir becomes Honoris Causa Doctor

Renowned Moldovan actor Mihai Volontir became a Honoris Causa Doctor of the Moldovan Academy of Science. People of culture, theater critics and the artist's fans attended the sitting of the Supreme Council of the Academy, where the emeritus man of culture and arts was celebrated, Info Prim Neo reports. The session started by projecting a fragment of one of the first movies Mihai Volontir played in, “Aceasta clipa”. The memories brought tears in the actor's and the public's eyes. Mihai Volontir made his debut in the play “Chirita in Iasi”, as Surugiu. In 1967 he made his debut in cinematography, playing Ivan Turbinca in the movie “Se cauta un paznic”. Tens of roles in movies followed, cast by several cinema studios. He's loved by the public especially for his playing Budulai in the movie “Tiganii” (The Gypsies.) “Mihai Volontir is a phenomenon we can't help admiring, a remarkable personality of Moldova,” said the Academy's president Gheorghe Duca. “He has always been invited to work by studios from Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kiev, Odesa, but he stayed loyal to the Balti Theater ”Vasile Alecsandri”. We bow to his talent,” Duca added. In 1984 Mihail Volontir got the title 'Artist of the people'. In 2000 he was designated as the best actor of the Moldovan cinematography in the 20th century. He is a knight of the Order of the Republic, a honorary citizen of Balti town. On March 9, the premier of the play “Visul unei nopti de mai”, directed by Mihai Volontir, took place in Vasile Alecsandri Theater. The actor marked his 75th anniversary through this work. After the performance, Gheorghe Duca handed Mihai Volontir the highest distinction of the Moldovan scientific community – the medal “Dimitrie Cantemir”. “I am proud I can serve people, but I regret my colleagues are not here any more: Victor Ciutac, Veneamin Apostol and many others,” Mihai Volontir said, his eyes in tears. “I cry often lately. It's a hard time for the cinematography and theater, but I am sure this does not prevent the public from enjoying theater. I hope the state will do the same,” the actor said.