Opera House
Bolshoi Theatre
Moscow, Russia·Est. 1776·1,740 seats
operaballet
Teatralnaya Square 1, Tverskoy District, Moscow, Russia
The Bolshoi Theatre, meaning 'Big Theatre' in Russian, stands as one of the world's most prestigious performing arts institutions and a symbol of Russia's artistic identity for nearly 250 years. Founded by Catherine the Great in 1776 and housed in its current neoclassical masterpiece since 1825, the venue is home to the world-renowned Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera companies, celebrated for their distinctive athletic virtuosity and grand productions. Its iconic façade, crowned by the Quadriga of Apollo, is an architectural landmark of Moscow and appears on the Russian 100-ruble banknote.
Season
Now & Coming Soon
The Experience
Acoustics, seating, and what to expect
Acoustics
4.5/ 5
The Bolshoi Theatre is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, particularly following the comprehensive 2005-2011 renovation that restored the original imperial acoustic design. Architect Alberto Cavos engineered the auditorium on the principle of a musical instrument, with every architectural detail calibrated to enhance sound projection and clarity.
Best Seats
Seats in the central parterre (orchestra) and lower tiers of boxes offer excellent views and acoustics. The Beethoven Hall, the theatre's smaller stage, provides good sightlines and sound quality from every seat due to its intimate size.
Dress Code
Formal / Black Tie
Visitor Guide
Tickets, pricing, and getting there
Getting There
Teatralnaya Metro Station (Okhotny Ryad Line); Okhotny Ryad Metro Station (Okhotny Ryad Line); Ploshchad Revolyutsii Metro Station (Sokolnicheskaya Line)
Around the Venue
Plan your visit — dining, transit, and performer resources nearby
Performer guide coming soon
Housing, coaches & studio spaces for this city
Venue Details
Architect
Joseph Bové (Osip Bove); reconstructed by Alberto Cavos after 1853 fire
Architecture
Russian neoclassical
Heritage
Protected architectural monument of Moscow
Resident Company
Bolshoi Theatre
Current Season
View Bolshoi Theatre Season ScheduleComing Soon
Upcoming performances
Creative Team
Behind the current productions
Insider Access
Rush, lottery, promo codes, and discount programs for shows at this theatre
No rush, lottery, or discount programs tracked for current shows
Visit & Connect
Location
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