Testimonials

Hosted by the Lodi Historical Society, Doctor R. Snick (Andrei Pischalnikoff) was the  guest presenter May 22, 2024, taking us on a journey of "Quackery and Dangerous Medicines and Devices" from the Victorian era to the early 20th century. The audience was captivated and entertained by Andrei's impressive presentation showcasing his extensive historical knowledge of the topic, displaying his personal collection of artifacts of this time period, as well as his production skills of the accompanying slideshow.

The "Doctor" was animated as he interacted and engaged with the audience by moving among them throughout  the presentation, posing stimulating questions. 

Thank you, Andrei, for a most memorable evening of your fascinating program!  

Mary Jane East

President, Lodi Historical Society

The enthusiasm and energy of Dr. R Snick at the Antioch Historical Society 2024 Spring membership dinner kept the audience enthralled and astounded. Our audience included people in their teens up to 90-years of age. They paid rapt attention to the presentation, and everyone was entertained as well as educated. His explanations and demonstrations of strange devices and quack medicines from the Victorian Era to the early 1900’s was well received with frequent gasps of astonishment and comments. His collection of artifacts was extensive and, at times, showed the barbaric side of early medicine. His slide collection of antique bottles was extensive as well as the stories of how they were obtained.

For a truly interesting and different presentation to your group, Dr. R. Snick can adjust his presentation to fit your needs and interests.

Shari Gayle, President of the Antioch Historical Society

The Elk Grove Historical Society hosts a history speaker series and Doctor R. Snick (Andrei Pischalnikoff) was recommended to us. We were told he was a knowledgeable and entertaining speaker on a variety of historic subjects.

His side-show approach to his March 2024 presentation made it very entertaining and enjoyable. His vast knowledge of patent medicines, elixirs, snake oil, dangerous devices, and quackery was well received. We were entertained, engaged and astounded. Some of the ingredients in the concoctions he covered were cocaine, morphine, arsenic, extremely high levels of alcohol, turpentine and more. He took us through the progression of the history of patent medicines and devices (and some legitimate medicines and devices) and explained their idiosyncrasies.

That evening, in addition to a wide range of adults, we had three young attendees (possibly 8, 10 and 13) that he kept engaged and involved. 

We are arranging to have him return for another presentation later this year.

Louis Silveira

Newsletter editor, Webmaster, Archivist

Elk Grove Historical Society

As the Founder and Producer of the Menagerie Oddities Market, I consider Andrei a member of the Menagerie family and an integral part of our shows. He's contracted with us as a presenter of 19th and early 20th century "Quackery", Poisons and "Oddities" since 2022 educating and entertaining attendees with fascinating stories. 

He's always eager to assist others and has learned to meet the challenges and demands in this dynamic business. I count on his flexibility, professionalism, and engaging, enthusiastic spirit to add a little more magic and nostalgia to each show, offering something special our patrons won't find anywhere else.

Connstance Garcia

President/Show Producer

www.themenagerieodditiesmarket.com

Andrei entertained a diverse crowd at our 2023 Dunsmuir Steampunk Festival. Old and young alike were fascinated with his presentations. Prior to speaking he would crack a bullwhip, capturing the audiences’ attention. 

He enchanted the audience with talks about Victorian era patent medicines and strange devices that promised curative powers. Andrei was not only very professional, but he was also flexible and a delight to work with.

Cindy Foreman
Dunsmuir Chamber Board Member
Steampunk Festival Chair