The number of Russian theaters is very large: there are about six hundred state theaters alone, and their largest concentration is, of course, in Moscow and St. Petersburg. What theaters in Russia are among the most famous in the country - find out further.
The first theater in Russia
Some believe that the first theaters are performances of buffoons. In fact, their semi-pagan singing and dancing can be considered the birth of theatrical performances in Russia, but still the founder of the very first theater in the country in the modern sense is Fedor Grigoryevich Volkov, the very first professional theater actor.
It was he who created the theater, which can be considered public and professional. Volkov staged theatrical performances at his home in Yaroslavl with his friends and brothers. This theater can be considered the first, since it met all the requirements of this concept: it was public, paid, permanent, with its own theatrical etiquette. Soon the rumor about this reached Tsarina Elizaveta Petrovna, who summoned them to St. Petersburg and instructed them to create a public theater.
But since then, it is Yaroslavl that has been spoken of as the place where all theaters in Russia- their homeland. The oldest building is the Yaroslavl Academic Theatre, now the Russian State Academic Theater named after F. G. Volkov.
The most famous theaters in Russia
Consider such theaters in Russia as the Bolshoi, Mikhailovsky, Mariinsky and Zimny - the most famous theaters in the country.
Grand Theatre
The Bolshoi Theater is called the State Academic Bolshoi Theater of Russia, located in Moscow. It is included not only in the theaters, which are among the most famous in Russia, but also in the most famous theaters around the world.
The history of this cultural institution began in 1776, when Catherine II signed a permit for Prince Peter Urusov to hold theatrical performances, masquerades, and concerts. However, the building did not survive until the opening and burned down in a fire. Urusov decided to hand it over to the Englishman Michael Maddox, his partner, who is building a new building in a little less than six months. And in 1780 it opens its doors to the first spectators.
However, the series of fires does not end there, and the building of the Bolshoi Theater at different times is subjected to fire three more times. The building of the Bolshoi Theater restored for the fourth time by the architect Albert Cavos received the famous bronze quadriga by the famous Russian sculptor Pyotr Klodt above the entrance, which is a feature of the theater. The modern building can accommodate just over two thousand people - rare theaters in Russia have such a capacity.
The Bolshoi Theater, without a doubt, can be called the main cultural platform of the Russian Federation. It consists of both a ballet and an opera troupe, as well as a stage and brass band and the orchestra of the Bolshoi Theater. Here, anyone who loves theater, in particular, opera and ballet performances, can always choose a performance to their liking. For a long time of existence, more than eight hundred different works have been staged on the stage of the theater. Sergey Rachmaninov, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, Maya Plisetskaya and other famous names of Russian and world art are related to this theater.
Mikhailovsky Theater
Of course, talking about theaters in Russia, it is impossible not to mention the Mikhailovsky Theater. It bears the name of Prince Mikhail, son of the All-Russian Emperor Paul I, and was opened in 1833. It is located on the current Square of Arts in the city of St. Petersburg. Mikhailovsky is one of the oldest theaters in Russian cities.
This temple of Melpomene was a favorite place for secular exits not only for all the Petersburg nobility, but also for the imperial family itself with its courtiers. Troupes from France and Germany came here on tour, and the orchestra was often led by Johann Strauss himself. However, after the February Revolution of 1917, foreign artists stopped coming to St. Petersburg, so the Mikhailovsky Theater began to think about how to assemble their own troupe of actors.
Before the war, the formation of the “Soviet opera” took place here, they staged The Quiet Don, Lady Macbeth of the Mtsensk District, and in the post-war period, Russian classics began to revive on the Mikhailovsky stage: they began to stage Eugene Onegin, Boris Godunov, etc.
Winter theater
It is one of the main attractions of the city of Sochi. It was erected in 1937 in the central area of the city.
Surrounded by 88 Corinthian columns, this conservative building immediately attracts the attention of guests of the resort capital of Russia and is one of the best architectural monuments of national importance. The theater hall is designed in gold, blue and white. It can accommodate just over nine hundred spectators.
The Sochi State Philharmonic Society is located in the same building - although the Winter Theater does not have its own theater troupe, it does have its own wonderful orchestra. Nevertheless, Zimny is an excellent venue for theatrical tours. The first work with which it was opened in 1938 is The Tsar's Bride, an opera by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Subsequently, the best troupes from all over the Soviet Union played here, and teams from many cities in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia and other countries still perform.
Mariinskii Opera House
The history of the Mariinsky Theater dates back to 1783 in St. Petersburg. Of all the theaters in Russia, it is the Bolshoi and Mariinsky theaters that are known all over the world. In addition, the Mariinsky is one of the oldest theaters in the country. Then it was opened under the name of the Bolshoi Stone Theater, and is located on Carouselnaya Square. The current building of the theater was built opposite it; the area is now called the Theater for a reason, and he himself is called the Mariinsky, in honor of Maria Alexandrovna, the wife of Alexander II.
Even in those days, the beauty and grandeur of this building already surprised observers. It is famous for its magnificent interiors. The furniture and drapery of the hall was not always the blue and blue hues we know it now - until 1952 it was traditionally dark red. There is no larger opera and ballet theater than the Mariinsky in Russia yet.
"Boris Godunov", "Ruslan and Lyudmila", "The Night Before Christmas" and many other productions were first presented here, and not only Russian, but also foreign, for example, "Tristan and Isolde", "Carmen", "Romeo and Juliet". Such artists as Fyodor Chaliapin and Fyodor Stravinsky left their mark on the history of the Mariinsky.
If you love theaters, their architecture and interior decoration, we suggest you take a short trip to Theater Square in St. Petersburg and look at the splendor of the Mariinsky Theater:
One of the most famous theaters in the USA was founded in 1880. At first it was located on Broadway, but in 1966 The Met, as the Americans call their opera, moved to Lincoln Center, where it is currently located. The old building, badly damaged by the fire, was demolished. Such famous performers as Kirsten Flagstad, Lauritz Melchior, Leonard Warren, Adam Didur, Fyodor Chaliapin, Maria Callas, Luciano Pavarotti and many others sang at the Metropolitan. Since 2006, the Metropolitan Opera has been broadcasting its productions in real time on its official website, as well as in cinemas in many countries of the world, including Russia. Don't miss your chance to touch the beauty!
Grand Theatre
This theater is rightfully considered one of the symbols of Moscow. It is customary to start the history of the theater from March 1776, although both the building and the concept have undergone many changes since then. The theater burned down and was rebuilt several times. In 2005, the Bolshoi was closed for a large-scale reconstruction, which caused a rather stormy and ambiguous reaction from both the theater staff and ordinary Muscovites. One way or another, the Bolshoi Theater remains one of the most important places in the Russian capital, where, despite expensive tickets, fans of opera and ballet continue to go. During the existence of the theater, more than 800 works were staged here, and the symbolic image of the theater appeared on hundred-ruble banknotes, stamps and chocolate "Entrance".
Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is inferior in size to its Moscow and New York counterparts, but its architecture strikes the imagination of the most sophisticated tourist. This theater was included in the list of the most easily recognizable buildings in the world and was recognized as one of the outstanding buildings of modern architecture. By the way, quite recently the Sydney Opera House also celebrated its birthday: the theater was opened on October 20, 1973 by Queen Elizabeth II. The architect of the opera house is the Dane Jorn Utzon, who won the Pritzker Prize in 2003 for the project. Sydney Opera regularly appears in famous films and posters for them. In addition, the theater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
La Scala
Even if you have never been to Milan, you must have heard the name La Scala more than once. This opera house was built on the site of the church of Santa Maria della Scala, hence its name. La Scala is very popular among both Italians and tourists who come to Milan by the thousands every year. Starting from the 30s of the XIX century, the history of La Scala is associated with the work of the largest Italian composers - G. Donizetti, V. Bellini, G. Verdi, G. Puccini, whose works were staged here for the first time.
grand opera
Grand Opera, or Opera Granier is one of the symbols of Paris. The building impresses with its beauty and sophistication: it fascinates even from the outside, not to mention the luxurious interior decoration. By the way, to get here, it is not necessary to buy tickets for the performance and wait for the evening. You can also visit during the day: the theater is open for visiting from 10 am to 5 pm every day, except for three holidays: January 1, May 1, December 25, as well as morning performances.
Vienna Opera
The facade of the Vienna Opera may be inferior in decoration to the Parisian Granier, but inside this theater is no less luxurious. The Vienna Opera opened in 1869 and is still the largest theater in Austria. You can get inside, and at the performance, for a nominal fee: tourists and local students often buy standing places for a few euros to join the high art. In winter, it is also a great way to keep warm, so take note!
Whatever fans of modern technology say, films will never replace theater. Musicals will never be as spectacular and exciting as opera or ballet. The most brilliant performance of a film actor cannot be compared with the live acting and improvisation of a theater actor.
But apart from the action itself, the theaters are often stunning by the view alone. So let's admire the most beautiful theaters in the world. Well, we dream of visiting there someday.
1. Palau de la Música Catalana, Barcelona, Spain
The magnificent concert hall was built by Luis Domènech y Montaner. This theater is the only concert hall in the world with natural light. The incredible glass mosaic that makes up the dome of the ceiling literally fascinates with its colorfulness.
2. Winter Garden Theatre, Toronto, Canada
The incredible botanical fantasy of Thomas Lamb simply does not allow you to look at anything else! We can't even imagine how people watch performances in this theatre. I bet you would also be looking at the leaves, flowers, and lanterns hanging from the ceiling instead of watching a performance.
3. Minack Theatre, Cornwall, England
This theater is the brainchild of amateur Rowena Cade, who designed it at the end of her garden to display merchandise for sale to the locals.
4. Wuxi Grand Theatre, China
This theater is one of the key cultural projects in China. It stands on the southern shore of the lake, and its reflection in the water creates an unusual and bewitching view. Perhaps its interior is not as impressive as the interior of previous theaters, but the exterior of the theater is clearly one of the best in the world.
5. Gran Teatre del Liceu, Barcelona, Spain
This opera house has existed since 1847. A similar interior can be found in our operas (the National Opera of Ukraine, for example), but the facade of the building is simply amazing!
6. Boston Opera House, Boston, Massachusetts
One of the most famous theaters in the world, and one of the most pompous in terms of interior design. He was one of the first in America to show vaudeville and became the first theater in which films were shown.
7 Guangzhou Opera House, China
Incredible theatre! It feels like sitting under some kind of creamy sky with bright stars on it. I want to literally burrow into the softness of this interior and stay there forever.
8. The Seebühne, Austria
Have you ever seen a floating theatre? Amazing spectacle! We don't even need a speech here. You can just come and enjoy this magnificent view.
9. Gran Teatro La Fenice, Venice, Italy
The theater, located in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, is in no way inferior to its city in terms of beauty. The history of the theater dates back to 1789, when it was necessary to replace the main opera house that had burned to the ground.
10. Copenhagen Opera House, Copenhagen, Denmark
Just imagine what it is like to see such magnificence from the stage. It seems that all the excitement should disappear at the moment when the actor goes out to the audience. Already breathtaking!
The holidays are approaching, and everyone is looking for a vacation to their liking. You can relax not just with your body, but with your soul, join the world culture and enjoy the best theatrical performances by visiting the most famous theaters in the world.
1. Theater of Dionysus
The ancient ruins in Athens are the cradle of the Western theatrical tradition. Much of what we recognize today as true theater has its origins in ancient Greek theater. Most of the architectural elements used in modern theater buildings originated from this original structure.
The stage on which the ancient Greek actors performed is still impressive. A grassy green meadow is also preserved, where the actors rested when they had time before their stage.
Although this building has been changed and rebuilt more than once, it has retained the memory of many theatrical generations. Just think, the tragedies of Eurydipus and the comedies of Aristophanes were staged in this theater!
It is difficult to imagine a place that would carry the same ancient history. The spirit is breathtaking from the thought of how it was at a time when the emperors themselves were present at the performances.
Although the theater is now in a dilapidated state, its grandeur and beauty still impresses every tourist who had the good fortune to set foot on the ancient ruins. And the opportunity to wander freely and touch every part of the Theater of Dionysus will definitely make the tour unforgettable!
2 . Shakespeare's Globe Theater
If the Theater of Dionysus is the same as Bethlehem for Christianity, then Shakespeare's Globe Theater is like the Vatican for an actor. William Shakespeare is unquestionably the greatest playwright in the world. And, even if it did not actually exist (and there are many such versions, and every year there are more of them), its influence on the world of theater is so extensive that not one list of famous theaters can do without mentioning the Globe.
Unlike Dionysus, Shakespeare's Globe is not just a breath of history. Although the original theater building remains only excavated fragments, the new Globe Theater was built in London on the South Bank of the Thames. It is only 300 meters from the old building, and copies its original appearance as accurately as possible. Such maximum similarity does not prevent the Globe from being equipped according to all the rules of a modern theater. Every connoisseur of the theater should at least once get into Shakespeare's "Globe".
Visiting this great theatre, you will not only enjoy faithfully recreated 16th century architecture, participate in various activities (writing your own sonnet, sword fights and more), but also see some of the best theater performances in the world.
3. Sydney Opera House
The theater, located on a remote mainland, absolutely not in line with the recognized canons of theaters of this kind, should have had a hard time. But the Sydney Opera House is something fundamentally different. Its unique design and location make it one of the iconic images of Australia, alongside the kangaroo and the Tasmanian devil.
Incredible sensations can be experienced even just by being close to this majestic building. Surrounded on all sides by water, with a roof in the form of sails, the Sydney Opera House is a living embodiment of human genius in architecture.
The largest organ, the largest curtain, the most daring idea brought to life - all this you can see when you decide to go to the Sydney Opera House!
4. La Scala, Milan
Founded on the former site of the settlement of Santa Maria della Scala, La Scala is the most famous opera house in the world, the first stop of every tour of Milan. The most famous operas of all time were staged here, and such names as Arturo Toscanini, Riccardo Muti, Gavazzeni Gianandrea sounded for the first time.
This opera house has a brilliant history dating back to the 18th century. The best directors and composers, the best singers and actors, the great prima donnas took to the stage of this impressive building.
The luxury and wealth of La Scala does not leave indifferent any spectator. Every opera lover dreams of getting to the opera at La Scala at least once, enjoying wonderful music and soaking up the atmosphere of great art.
5. Bolshoi Theater in Moscow
Well, if you do not want or do not have the opportunity to travel far for aesthetic pleasure and vivid impressions, you should think about visiting the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow.
It is difficult to find another such magnificent and full of grandeur building, no doubt with a bright and controversial history. The Bolshoi Theater has always attracted tourists from all over the world and has received worldwide recognition. And the excellent repertoire, which is successful in many countries, will not leave dissatisfied connoisseurs of theatrical art.
Opera houses are temples of the art of Mozart, Verdi, Tchaikovsky, and at the same time the brainchild of talented architects and designers of their generation. There are many theaters in the world rich in beauty with chic halls, incredible scenery and truly impressive exteriors. So, we went in search of the most beautiful opera houses in the world and identified the 15 best.
Grand Opera, Paris, France
Also known as the "Opera Garnier", the theater in Paris is one of the most famous and important opera and ballet theaters in the world. The construction was erected for more than 15 years, and the thirty-five-year-old Charles Garnier, unknown at that time, was in charge of the project. The building impresses from the first minutes with its luxurious lobby with a staircase lined with multi-colored marble and marvelous floor lamps. The theatrical foyer, with lovely mosaics and a golden background, is strikingly rich, while the main hall with a giant crystal chandelier and a painted ceiling can accommodate 1,900 people. In the basement of the theatre, there is a reservoir of water, about which there were many legends - it was mentioned in Gaston Leroux's novel The Phantom of the Opera.
Sydney Opera House, Sydney, Australia
The theater building has become a real symbol of the city and the country. Built in 1973, the opera house is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The recognizable building with a sail-shaped roof was built for 14 long years, and Queen Elizabeth II of England attended its opening.
La Scala Opera House, Milan, Italy
The most famous 230-year-old theater was once lit by more than a thousand lamps, so there were hundreds of buckets filled with water everywhere - in case of fire. The theater acquired its name thanks to the church of Santa Maria della Scala, on the site of which the building was built. La Scala is closely connected with the work of the greatest Italian composers - Bellini, Verdi, Puccini, whose works were staged here for the first time.
Copenhagen Opera House, Copenhagen, Denmark
The construction of the Copenhagen Opera is considered one of the most expensive in the world, and the building turned out to be amazingly beautiful. No wonder, because we are talking about the first national opera house in Denmark! This building, opened in 2005, is very different from the three above, as it was built in the style of neo-futurism.
Bolshoi Theatre, Moscow, Russia
One of the largest in Russia and one of the most significant opera and ballet theaters in the world was built in 1776 by decree of Catherine II. The entire history of the theatrical culture of the capital for many years was associated exclusively with this theater, but even today the theater is adored and revered by its audience.
Royal Opera House, London, UK
This theater is often referred to simply as "Covent Garden" after the area in which the theater building is located. Georg Friedrich Handel, a mid-18th century German and English composer, wrote several operas especially for this opera house. 
Metropolitan Opera, New York, USA
The theatre, known as the Mat for short, is famous for its chic frescoes by Marc Chagall, its magnificent silk and sequined curtains, and its impressive 3,900-seat auditorium. We are talking about the new building of the Opera, which was built in 1966. 
Colon Opera House, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Colon has one of the best acoustics in the world. The theater we see today was built in 1908. Its hall accommodates 2,500 people, and there are also places for about 1,000 spectators who wish to listen to operas standing up. 
Mariinsky Theatre, St. Petersburg, Russia
The name of the theatre, founded in 1783, has changed five times. The interiors of the theater are impressive: an old curtain that exactly repeats the design of the ceremonial mantle of Empress Alexandra, luxurious golden stucco, a huge bronze chandelier weighing 2.5 tons. 
San Carlo Opera House, Naples, Italy
Founded by the decree of King Charles VII, the theater is the oldest continuously operating opera house in Europe. 
Royal Opera of Versailles, Versailles, France
This is the main opera and drama theater of the Palace of Versailles. The theatre, built entirely of wood and painted to look like marble slabs, was opened in 1770. 
Margrave Opera House, Bayreuth, Germany
Richard Wagner admired the huge main stage of this opera house - a little later, under his leadership, the Bayreuth Festival Theater was erected nearby. The Bavarian Theater is a World Heritage Site. 
Drottningholm Palace Theatre, Stockholm, Sweden
Opened in 1766, the baroque theater still preserves Italian machines and mechanisms typical of that time, with the help of which furniture moved around the stage, jets of water poured and a roar was heard. 
Estates Theatre, Prague, Czech Republic
Most of all, this theater is famous as the place where the premieres of Mozart's operas "Don Giovanni" (in 1787) and "The Mercy of Titus" (in 1791) took place. Moreover, the performances were personally conducted by the author, and this is the only theater that has survived in its original form, where the great composer performed.
Hungarian State Opera House, Budapest, Hungary
The Opera House, opened in 1875, ranks third in terms of acoustics in Europe. In the building, the theater twice staged his operas by Giacomo Puccini. 
