Wednesday, June 18, 2008

What a Country!

I'm doing some research on the Cold War, and today have been looking into one of its most celebrated figures - the lovable Yakov Smirnoff.

He calls Branson, Missouri home now, but after coming to America in 1977 he made a career out of lampooning those wacky Soviets.




He was on Miller Lite commercials...

And even turned his catch phrase, "What a Country!" into what can only be described as a more ethnically diverse, low-rent "Perfect Strangers."

Now, he has a theater named after him where he performs. What is that show like? From the website.
"There ought to be a caution sign as you enter the Yakov Smirnoff Theatre in Branson, Missouri. It should read “Warning! Hold on to your seat ‘cause this guy is about to blow you away with dynamite comedy!” This ‘guy’ of course is Branson’s Two-Time Comedian of the Year, Yakov Smirnoff, the famous Russian Comedian. He delivers explosive laughter in a show filled with brilliant special effects, dazzling dancing, heartfelt moments, and just plain fun. Yakov’s entire show is packed with comedic tall tales and witty perceptions, funny facts and huge laughs. "

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