I came to the Moscow Art Theatre after drama school in 1924. I came, proud that I was invited straight away to play Chatskiy. When I was accepted,
Konstantin Stanislavski was abroad. After his return, the newly accepted actors were introduced to him. My turn came. Konstantin Sergeevich looked at me and said: - You are a very handsome young man. I kept silent, but in my heart I, of course, absolutely agreed with him. Stanislavsky continued: - You know what? Wait with Chatskiy. Play something witty first