Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre

The Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre is a major Soviet-era performing arts complex in the centre of Novosibirsk, Siberia, known for its very large theatre building and active resident opera and ballet companies. It functions as the primary venue for large-scale opera and ballet productions in the city.

The complex houses a large auditorium, stage facilities and public foyers that support full-scale opera and ballet productions with orchestras, chorus and ballet corps. The building’s prominent dome and mass make it a landmark on Novosibirsk’s cityscape and a focus for cultural life.

The theatre was constructed in the Soviet period and completed in the mid 20th century; it has served continuously as a home for the city’s opera and ballet companies and for touring productions. The institution is the principal producing company for full-length opera and ballet in Novosibirsk.

The theatre stands in central Novosibirsk and is readily reached from the city centre; it occupies a prominent site within the urban core and is a short walk from major tram and bus routes.

• Building scale: The building is notable for its very large dome and expansive stage and foyer areas; it is widely described as one of the largest theatre buildings in Russia.
• Performance tip: Check performance schedules in advance; evening performances of opera and ballet are the primary way to experience the interior and acoustics.