Famous Russian comedian Yakov Smirnoff at American Heartland Theatre

In his book How to be funny, Steve Allen included Yakov in a list of the 10 most famous comedians.

Yakov's movie credits include "Moscow on the Hudson" with Robin Williams, "Brewster's Millions" with Richard Pryor, "The Money Pit" with Tom Hanks and "Heartburn" with Jack Nicholson and Meryl Streep. His many television credits include Showtime's ACE Award nominee "Yakov Smirnoff from Moscow...Idaho," as well as his own 1986 syndicated series "What a Country."

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!" The journey begins with Yakov's explosive arrival on stage and from that point on Yakov climbs to new heights in the world of comedy. During this quick paced show full of variety you'll meet Boris The Horse, see the Statue of Liberty, share in Yakov's journey as an United States citizen, watch as an audience member becomes a 'talk' show host, take a peek at Yakov's Ferrari and...there's more!

Yakov's comedy focuses on the dynamics between men and women, the happiness that can be found inside oneself, and a celebration of the spirit of life. He shares a vision of the world where laughter truly is the best medicine. Yakov's prescription for healthy living includes explosive laughter backed up with the best of human compassion. As Yakov says, "What A Country", you'll feel like cheering for the red, white & blue. During this inspiring show filled with patriotism and love of family, Yakov delivers humor for the heart over and over again!

In his one-man Broadway show, "As Long As We Both Shall Laugh", Yakov Smirnoff is telling about his journey of the man who became an American citizen on July 4, 1986, when he was sworn in at the Statue of Liberty, the immigrant who, in 1977, landed in this country with his parents and less than $100 in his pocket has grown to become a command performer at the White House and respected comedic voice. Yakov takes everyone on a comedic journey offering unique insights into relationships between men and women. Yakov delivers humor for the heart over and over again and takes a sensitive look at the dynamics between men and women. He shares a vision of the world where laughter is truly the best medicine and conveys a celebration of the spirit of life.

Yakov, revered for his relationship building efforts between Russia and the United States, now turns his attention to encouraging dialogue between the genders. Yakov says, "The laughter and humor between Soviet President Mikhail Gorbachev and President Ronald Reagan helped bring down the Berlin Wall. Now it's time to break down the walls between the genders. The barometer of a good relationship is the amount of laughter between two people. If you're ready to go on a gender bender, bring your loved ones to my show and see how your relationship measures up on my laughter barometer." ?