The largest theatre in Russia, the Novosibirsk Opera, first opened its doors on 12 May 1945. On the same day 70 years later, it is celebrating a very special anniversary.
This beloved theatre is offering an anniversary programme to delight everyone — every local resident, theatre-lover and friend of the theatre, young and old. Those who enter the theatre’s auditorium will bear witness to magical scenes unfolding on the biggest stage in the country. Ballet dancers, opera singers, the choir, extras, and the symphony orchestra, from leading stars to young newcomers: all will have a part to play. The evening’s guests will be treated to an appearance by a very special guest — St. Petersburg’s Mikhailovsky Theatre Ballet.
Those who prefer lively street festivities decorated by the city’s May-time regalia might like to watch the Siberian Cadet Corps on parade.
At 16:30, in front of the theatre building, the young cadets will form up to show off their skills. The hour-long show featuring 180 boys aged between 10 and 17 will be set to the rhythm of a marching band. A company of sixth-grade drummers will delight the audience for the first time. A special surprise is in store for spectators at the end of the parade. It is well worth visiting the theatre on the day of its anniversary just to enjoy this unique offering from the Siberian cadets.
On this day of all days, let the theatre auditorium spill out onto the streets, becoming one with the city’s main square, bringing hundreds and thousands of music lovers together.
At 18:30, guests will enter the main auditorium. The action will, unexpectedly, start in the foyer before naturally pouring into the auditorium. There, as part of the Theatre of Victory showcase, the Novosibirsk Opera will take a look back at the brightest moments of its history and artistry. The names of those who have contributed to the glory and success of Siberian theatre will be announced from the stage. The building of the theatre, the early years of the great ‘Siberian Coliseum’, its triumphs at festivals and unforgettable appearances on tour will all be celebrated.
The showcase will include performances from the theatre’s leading opera and ballet soloists: Anna Zharova, Oleg Videman, Nikolai Loskutkin, Irina Churilova, Pavel Yankovsky, Roman Polkovnikov, Anna Odintsova, and many more.
The theatre will welcome onto its stage the Siberian Russian Folk Chorus.
The anniversary showcase is being directed by Igor Selin.
In charge of the evening’s music is conductor Yevgeny Volynsky.
The Mikhailovsky Theatre Ballet, the special guest of the evening, will be performing an extract from Boris Asafiev’s The Flames of Paris.
The ceremony will be hosted by People’s Artist of Russia Nikolai Tsiskaridze.