Mikhailovsky Theatre Excursions to Russia 2024 the prices | the cost of excursions

The brilliant history of the Mikhailovsky Theater began with the selection of the architect for the building. The connoisseur of art Alexander Briullov constructed the theater building, squeezing it into the already existing ensemble on the Arts Square. So the theater facades were done according to Carlo Rossi's projects to "rhyme" with the building of the Mikhailovsky Palace. Brullov created a magic box: you would never guess that behind the humble facade there is a theater, if it hadn't been for the roof, where behind the dome above the auditorium box a high stage can be seen. The splendor of the imperial theater is housed inside: silver and velvet, mirrors, crystal, paintings and stucco. On November 8, 1833 the theater opened its doors to the first spectators.

The theater and palace, bearing the name of Grand Duke Mikhail Pavlovich, eventually became firmly associated with the fine arts. In 1859, architect Albert Kavos, who was in charge of urban musical theaters, remodels the building, expands the stage and builds another tier in the auditorium, for the theater was gaining popularity.It was during this restructuring that at the Mikhailovsky Theater appeared the unique ceiling mural by the Italian artist Giovanni Busato depicting "The victory of the powers of enlightenment and science over the dark powers of ignorance".

The theater attracted all the Petersburg society, including the courtyard and the imperial family. At the theater acted French and German troupes, and at the conductor's podium more than once stood maestro Johann Strauss.

Address: 1 Arts Square

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Mikhailovsky Theatre