Mariinsky Theatre

Why go

Mariinsky Theatre rewards attention to scale, orientation, and setting. The Mariinsky Theatre (Мариинский театр) is a historic theatre of opera and ballet in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Before leaving, compare one close detail of Mariinsky Theatre with its broadest public view. At Mariinsky Theatre, a slower circuit makes Mariinsky Theatre's neighborhood relationship easier to read.

What to look for

• Mariinsky Theatre: Start at the edge and work toward the visual center.
• Mariinsky Theatre: Notice how ornament directs attention across the facade or grounds.
• Mariinsky Theatre: Compare the near view with the broader city setting.

The full story

The Mariinsky Theatre (Мариинский театр) is a historic theatre of opera and ballet in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Opened in 1860, it became the preeminent music theatre of late 19th century Russia, where many of the stage masterpieces of Tchaikovsky, Mussorgsky, and Rimsky-Korsakov received their premieres. The Mariinsky Theatre is home to the Mariinsky Ballet, Mariinsky Opera and Mariinsky Orchestra. Origins The Imperial opera and ballet theatre in Saint Petersburg was established in 1783 at the behest of Catherine the Great, although an Italian ballet troupe had performed at the Russian court since the early 18th century. A permanent theatre building for the new company of opera and ballet artists was designed by Antonio Rinaldi and opened in 1783. Known as the Imperial Bolshoi Kamenny Theatre the structure was situated on Theatre Square. On 29 January 1849, the Equestrian circus (Конный цирк) opened on Theatre Square.

Useful to know

• Check the current admission calendar for Mariinsky Theatre before building an interior visit around it.

Your next visit

Estimated · Declared scenario and planning estimates; no live opening, weather, queue or booking service.