Overview:

State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre of the Republic of Azerbaijan, located in Baku is the oldest theatre in the Eurasian region and one of the leading national theatres in the world. Established in 1910 as the Soviet State Opera and Ballet Theatre, the theatre was founded byUzeyir Hajibeyov, a renowned Azerbaijani composer, and was the first of its kind in the Russian Empire. The current building of the theatre, built in 1927, is a masterpiece of architecture with its grand facades, marble fountains, canopies and statues, all of which embrace its magnificent atmosphere. The theatre serves as the home for the Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet, a professional troupe of the highest standing, showcasing some of the greatest works of world music and dance. Performances at the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre range from classic ballets to new operas and symphonic concerts. The theatre's repertoire of performances is regularly updated to include the latest works as well as beloved favourites from the past. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Azerbaijan
Prominent Features:

The State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre in Baku, Azerbaijan is one of the major performing arts venues in the country and one of the oldest buildings in the city. Built in the late 19th century by the famous Polish architect Józef Gosławski, this Baroque-style theatre has hosted some of the world’s most prominent operas and ballets. Located in the city center, the theater is known for high-quality acoustics and exclusive services for visiting guests. Notable performances staged here include Georges Bizet’s Carmen, Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto, and Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake. The theater continues to enjoy modern updates, including an electronic ticketing system, comfortable seating, and a comfortable foyer. The State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre is a treasured landmark in Azerbaijan due to its rich history and cultural significance. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Azerbaijan.

History:

The State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre of Baku is the main opera, ballet and drama theatre in Baku, Azerbaijan. It was established in 1911 and has been at the centre of Azerbaijani musical culture ever since. The theatre was established by Uzeyir Hajibeyov, a composer known as the ‘father of Azerbaijani music’, and Mirza Aga Aliyev. The two men also helped to create the Musical Comedy Theatre (1910-1917) and the Drama Theatre (1912-1920). In 1911, the Capital City Council of Baku granted Uzeyir Hajibeyov and Mirza Aga Aliyev permission to form the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, which initially comprised of a mixed choir, an orchestra, a ballet ensemble and a drama troupe. Hajibeyov was the theatre’s first director and chairman of the board of directors. The first performance was a play called ‘Haji Gara’ and premiered on December 16th, 1911. Over the years, the theatre has presented Azerbaijani classics such as ‘Haji Gara’ and ‘Koroghlu’ as well as modern pieces like ‘The Sound of the Marriage’ and ‘Prince of the Mountains’. On special occasions, the theatre has expanded its repertoire to include tributes to other countries and cultures such as ‘The Czar’s Bride’, ‘Carmen’, ‘Mannes Kumir’ and ‘Parisian Life’. The theatre has held numerous festivals and concerts, including the World Ballet Festival in 1966 and the Uzeyir Hajibeyov Operatic Festival in 1988. Today, the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre of Baku is admired across the city and nation, and is considered one of the most important cultural institutions in Azerbaijan. It is home to an international-standard ballet ensemble, a symphony orchestra, and a modern theatre featuring cutting-edge theatrical techniques and special effects. Visit one of the famous monuments of Azerbaijan with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The State Academic Opera and Ballette Theatre of Azerbaijan opened in 1911 as the first opera and ballet theatre in the country, making it the oldest theatre of its kind in the Caucasus region. 2. The theatre is located in the centre of Baku at the foot of Maiden Tower, an iconic landmark steeped in legend that dates back to the 12th century. 3. Its original building was destroyed during World War II, but in 1948 it was rebuilt in a modernist style by Azerbaijani architect Mikayil Huseynov and it has remained unchanged since then. 4. The theatre has earned its reputation as one of the most prestigious theatres of its kind in the world, hosting performances by renowned international artists. 5. It is also the permanent home to Azerbaijan’s National Opera and Ballet Theatre, a troupe of the country’s most talented performers. 6. The State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre is also a major cultural centre in Azerbaijan, offering a variety of public workshops and cultural events. One of the historical monuments of Azerbaijan, it tells the story of a bygone era