Abay Opera and Ballet Theater
The history of the Abay Opera and Ballet Theater dates back to 1933, when a group of musicians and actors founded a modest studio in Almaty. As the number of performers and productions grew, the studio gained popularity and success, leading to the decision to construct a dedicated building for the theater.
From 1936 to 1941, the construction of the new theater took place in the prestigious Golden Square of Almaty, where the city's upper-class residents lived. The theater was named in honor of Abay, a renowned Kazakh poet, composer, and philosopher.
The stage of the Abay Opera and Ballet Theater has seen a diverse range of performances throughout its history. In addition to showcasing Kazakh productions, the theater also staged plays by Russian and foreign classics, many of which were translated into Kazakh, including Faust, The Queen of Spades, Aida, and Eugene Onegin. The theater's troupe was comprised of legendary artists of the time.
In recent years, the theater has expanded its repertoire and taken a more experimental approach to its productions. Today, audiences can enjoy not only classical works but also innovative and avant-garde performances, showcasing the theater's versatility and commitment to pushing boundaries in the arts.
An example of Stalinist architecture
The architecture of the Abay Opera and Ballet Theater reflects the Stalinist Empire style prevalent in buildings constructed during the Soviet military and post-war periods. This style is characterized by balanced proportions and the use of natural materials such as wood, marble, ceramics, and crystal, which can be seen both in the exterior and interior of the theater. To add a unique flair and highlight the cultural significance of the building, the Empire style was infused with elements of Italian classicism and the national Kazakh style. Despite these different influences, the design is harmoniously combined, with classical lines of light colors serving to enhance the traditional Kazakh ornamentation that embellishes the exterior.
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The facade of the Abay Opera and Ballet Theater features a bas-relief above the spatial loggia, depicting scenes from the life of working people, Kazakh epics, and the struggle for the establishment of Soviet power. This relief serves as a visual representation of the cultural and historical context in which the theater was built, showcasing its significance as a symbol of the time.
The Abay Opera and Ballet Theater has a seating capacity of 793. Upon entering the grand lobby, visitors will be greeted by high relief columns, a suspended ceiling in the form of a blue sky, and portraits of famous Kazakh artists and opera singers from different eras. The interior of the building is dominated by traditional Kazakh designs and patterns, adding to the national ambiance.
The area outside the theater is also beautifully appointed, featuring fountains and lanterns with clocks. A former statue of Stalin has been replaced with the Nedelka fountain and a restaurant in the eastern square adjacent to the theater. In the western square, there is a monument to Mukhtar Auezov (poet and dramaturgist), a fountain, art objects, and a cafe, providing a variety of dining and relaxation options for theater-goers.
How to get there?
Address: Almaty, 110 Kabanbay Batyr St.
The Abay Opera and Ballet Theater is accessible by trolleybus #9 along Kabanbay Batyr St., as well as by buses running along neighboring streets, including buses #2, 3 (night), 63, 79, 86, 118, 120 along Nazarbayev Ave., and buses #12, 98, 99 and trolleybuses #5 and 6 along Abylai Khan Ave. The nearest subway station, Almaly, is a 5-minute walk from the theater.
Working hours: Mon-Sun 10:00 am to 6:00 pm