Many people remember Zazu Napoli as a party favorite and one of the brightest stars of the Russian drag scene. But in early 2025, she suddenly disappeared from all the posters...stopped performing and touring in her usual style, which raised questions among her fans.
The reason for the sudden disappearance Zazy Napoli became OMON raid at a nightclub in Voronezh in November 2024. During this incident, Zaza Napoli "fell under the distribution" and could have become a defendant in a case involving LGBT propaganda and participation in an "organization banned in Russia".
Since then Vladim Kazantsev took off Zaza Napoli's costume and for a while appeared in a male role under his real name and in more formal suits. His first tour as a woman didn't begin again until October 2025.
In November 2025, Zaza released her new mini-album. "A small miracle happened in my musical universe - a new mini-album was born. Only 5 songs, but they are about smiles, feelings, about a holiday, about a good mood and a sparkle in the eyes that arises between the artist and those who listen with their hearts", – wrote Zaza on her Instagram account.
Zaza Napoli – this is the artist's stage persona Vladima Kazantseva, which has become one of the top travesty divas in Russia. His career developed rapidly after he accidentally tried himself in this genre. One by one, he released music albums and won prestigious awards such as the Nightlight Awards for Best Club Show and the Silver Galosha.
- Vladim Vladimirovich Kazantsev was born on April 14, 1973, in the city of Yarovoye, USSR.
- In 1991, Vladim graduated from teacher training college and received a diploma as an elementary school teacher. He later began working at a school. After working there for a year, he resigned and enrolled at the East Siberian State Institute of Culture in the Department of Theater Arts, majoring in theater and film acting. Before moving to the capital, he lived in Ulan-Ude, worked at the local state television and radio company, performed in the theater, and hosted official concerts.
- In 1997, he moved to Moscow, and in 1998, he founded the “Birds of Paradise” drag theater.
- In 2002, he starred in the crime film *Ice Age*.
- In 2006, Napoli played the role of Zaza in the TV series *Don't Be Born Beautiful*. He also appeared in the thriller *Cursed Paradise*, the comedy *Kings of the Game*, and other films.
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