description Mikhailovsky Opera Overview
St. Petersburg's second major opera and ballet theater, originally opened in 1833 as the Mikhailovsky Theatre and extensively renovated in the 2000s.
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Mikhailovsky Opera ranks #73 of 331 in the Opera House ranking, behind Houston Grand Opera, ahead of Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts.
help Mikhailovsky Opera FAQ
Is the Mikhailovsky Theatre older than the famous Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg?
No, the Mariinsky (originally the Imperial Theatre) is slightly older, but the Mikhailovsky, opened in 1833, serves as St. Petersburg's second major opera and ballet venue. It was commissioned by Tsar Nicholas I and named after his brother, Grand Duke Mikhail Pavlovich.
Who financially backed the extensive renovation of the Mikhailovsky Theatre in the 2000s?
The theatre underwent a massive, multi-million dollar renovation in the 2000s largely funded by Russian billionaire Vladimir Kekhman. Kekhman was appointed as the theater's general director and used his wealth to modernize the historic venue and lure star talent.
Which famous ballet dancers were recruited to stage performances at the Mikhailovsky Theatre?
Under the leadership of Vladimir Kekhman in the early 2010s, the theater famously recruited legendary ballet stars like Mikhail Messerer and Natalia Makarova to restage classic Russian ballets. This strategic move elevated the company's international profile and directly challenged the Mariinsky Ballet.
What kind of architectural style is the Mikhailovsky Theatre built in?
The building was designed by architect Alexander Brullov in a classic, elegant Empire style. Its intimate, horseshoe-shaped auditorium is renowned for its excellent acoustics and historically preserved golden interiors, offering a distinctly different atmosphere than larger modern halls.
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