The National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of the Republic of Belarus is the largest musical and theatrical venue in the country, where audiences can enjoy not only Belarusian but also world masterpieces. Opened on May 25, 1933, with the premiere of the opera "Carmen," the theatre has become an important part of the cultural life of Minsk and Belarus as a whole.
The History of the Theatre
The theatre's first production was "Carmen," featuring the great Belarusian singer Larisa Aleksandrovskaya in the lead role. In the early 1930s, before the construction of its own building, the troupe performed at the Belarusian Drama Theatre. Construction of the new theatre began in 1934 at Place de la Commune de Paris under the direction of architect I.G. Langbard and lasted five years.
The new building was inaugurated on March 10, 1939, with the premiere of the opera "Mikhas Padgorny" by Belarusian composer Yevgeny Tikotsky. However, shortly thereafter, during the early days of the Great Patriotic War, the theatre was damaged by bombing, and the occupiers used its building as a stable. It wasn't until 1947 that the theatre was restored and reopened, presenting the premiere of "Kastus Kalinouski" to audiences.
Since then, the theatre has become known not only in Belarus but also beyond its borders. In 1964, it was awarded the title of academic, and in 1989, it received the State Prize of Belarus for the opera "The Wild Hunt of King Stakh." In recent years, the troupe has toured the world, presenting productions such as "Nabucco" and "Tosca."
Architecture and Features
The theatre building, constructed in the style of Soviet constructivism, has become a symbol of Minsk and an architectural monument of national significance. The hall accommodates 1,137 spectators, and its decoration includes antique chandeliers, granite and marble, gilded stucco, and ceiling paintings.
One of the main features of the theatre is the modern transformer stage, consisting of 21 platforms, allowing for unique productions. The exterior of the theatre is adorned with 5-meter sculptures of muses, embodying various forms of art.
Repertoire
Today, the theatre's repertoire includes more than 80 titles of operas and ballets. Each theatre season features around 250 performances, including both classical works and modern productions. For children, performances such as "The Nutcracker" and "Doctor Aybolit" are presented, while the adult audience can enjoy "Macbeth," "Aida," and other masterpieces of world classics.
The National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre of the Republic of Belarus continues to be an important cultural center where audiences can enjoy the high art of opera and ballet.
Sights Nearby
