At Theatre Square in St Petersburg, the Mariinsky Theatre is a historic stage for ballet, opera and orchestral performances. Its main building opened in 1860, and its lavish auditorium, with gilded details and chandeliers, is part of the appeal. Book a performance to hear the Mariinsky Orchestra or see a classic ballet such as Swan Lake, The Nutcracker or Giselle. Check the venue printed on your ticket: performances associated with the Mariinsky may take place at another theatre building.
A theatre with an imperial past
The Mariinsky’s story begins before the present building. Catherine the Great established the city’s drama, opera and ballet troupe in 1783. The theatre on Theatre Square opened in 1860, becoming a home for opera and ballet in St Petersburg.
Over the years, the venue has carried different names, including the Kirov Theatre during the Soviet era. Today, it is associated with the Mariinsky Ballet, Opera and Orchestra. Its history is connected with performers such as Anna Pavlova and Vaslav Nijinsky, as well as composers including Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev and Rimsky-Korsakov.
The main building and auditorium
The historic theatre stands on Theatre Square. Its exterior is a landmark of the area, while the auditorium’s gilded decoration, velvet seating and chandeliers set a formal tone for an evening performance. The interior is part of the experience, so arriving early gives you time to look around before the curtain rises.
The Mariinsky complex also includes a newer stage, Mariinsky II, described as a modern opera house. Check the venue details for the specific performance you plan to attend. The name Mariinsky does not, by itself, confirm which building will host a show.
Choosing a performance
The programme ranges from established opera and ballet to newer productions and premieres. Classical ballet titles associated with the theatre include Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty; opera examples include Carmen, The Magic Flute and Eugene Onegin. Specific works and performance dates depend on the current schedule, so check the theatre’s programme when planning your visit.
A performance gives you a chance to experience the Mariinsky’s music and dance in the setting for which the theatre is known. The orchestra, opera company and ballet company all perform under the Mariinsky name. If you have a particular production in mind, confirm both the date and the venue when arranging tickets.
FAQ
Where is the Mariinsky Theatre?
The historic theatre is at Theatre Square, 1, in St Petersburg. Check your ticket for the performance venue, as a Mariinsky-associated show may take place in a different theatre building.
What can you see at the Mariinsky Theatre?
The programme includes ballet, opera and orchestral performances. Past and classic repertoire includes Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Carmen and Eugene Onegin.
How long does a visit take?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a performance visit.
Should I buy tickets in advance?
Yes. Check the schedule and venue, then book ahead for the performance you want.
