Biografia
Velko Kynev was born in Elhovo in 1948. He graduated in acting from the National Academy for Theatre and Film Art in Sofia, Bulgaria, in 1973, studying under Professor Apostol Karamitev. From 1973 to 1976, he performed at the Drama Theatre in Sliven, followed by three seasons at the Satire Theatre. In 1979, he joined the troupe of the National Theatre "Ivan Vazov." Velko Kanev appeared in over 40 theatrical roles. He won the "Asker" Award for Best Leading Actor in 1994 for his portrayal of Krusty Nikiforov in Konstantin Iliev's drama "Easter Wine." In 2007, his performance in Jean-Pierre Dopa's "Teacher" earned second prize at the International Festival of Mono Performances "Monocle" in St. Petersburg. In 2008, he was invited to join the Kings of Comedy. On October 2 of the same year, Velko Kynev received the Order of St. Cyril and Methodius, first degree, for his contributions to culture and art. That day, he also celebrated his 60th anniversary on the stage of the National Theatre with the premiere of the monodrama "Twelve Angry Monologues." He played leading roles in films such as "Orchestra Without a Name," "Boy Last," "Matriarchy," "Manly Times," "Bon Chance, Inspector!," and "All For Love," among others. Together with George Mamalev and Pavel Popandov, he founded the band UFO, known for its sharp satire of socialism. They released several successful albums, and the project later evolved into the TV show Club UFO. Velko Kanev passed away on December 11, 2011, at the age of 63, after a long and serious illness.
