Lucien Guitry was born in Paris in 1860 into a family of merchants who owned a knife and razor shop in the Palais-Royal gallery. Although his parents were engaged in trade, they loved the theatre and supported their son’s interest in the stage. In 1882, Guitry was invited to join the French company of the Mikhailovsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg. He did not initially plan to stay long in Russia, but ultimately performed on the St. Petersburg stage for nine seasons. He made his debut as Daniel in Albert Delpit’s comedy “The Son of Coralie” and soon gained recognition as a leading romantic actor. He was also a friend of Sarah Bernhardt. During his time in Russia, Guitry performed at the court of Alexander III, took part in private performances in Gatchina. He spoke Russian well, took an interest in local life, and associated with members of the theatrical and court circles. His impressions of Russia later formed the basis of his memoirs, published in 1924 in the French newspaper “Candide”. Saint Petersburg played an important role in his personal life as well. His son, Sacha Guitry, who would later become a well-known playwright and director, was born there. After separating from his wife, Lucien took his five-year-old son to Russia, where the boy grew up surrounded by the theatrical world. In 1890, Guitry’s farewell benefit performance took place in Saint Petersburg, featuring music by Pyotr Tchaikovsky for “Hamlet”. After returning to France, the actor continued his artistic career. The Bakhrushin Theatre Museum collection preserves photographs of the actor from his time in Saint Petersburg, as well as his personal letters.