If you are traveling to Siberia, you cannot miss a visit to the Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre, officially known as the Novosibirsk State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. Centrally situated on Lenin Square in the heart of Novosibirsk, this grand landmark completed construction in February 1944 and hosted its inaugural performance on May 12, 1945. As the physically largest theater building in the world and the largest in Russia—surpassing even Moscow's famous Bolshoi Theatre—it offers an astonishing architectural experience.
When you visit, you will marvel at its sprawling ten-part structure dominated by a massive central dome that spans 60 meters wide and stands 35 meters high. The interior features a ground-floor lobby and cash register, a concert hall on the second and third floors, and a dramatic cylindrical auditorium with circular foyers. Beyond the main spaces, the complex houses a 30-meter-deep stage block, side wings with costume and decoration workshops, and a semi-cylindrical scenery warehouse.
With a Big Hall accommodating 1,774 viewers, a 375-seat concert hall, and a 150-seat small hall, the 2005-reconstructed complex is recognized as the most well-equipped theater in Russia. Pop culture fans might even recognize it as the fifth Pit Stop from season fourteen of The Amazing Race.
What to see at Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre
- Explore the physically largest theater building in the world, situated on Lenin Square.
- Gaze up at the massive central dome measuring 60 meters wide and 35 meters high.
- Admire the 1,774-seat Big Hall alongside the secondary concert and small halls.
- Discover Russia's most well-equipped theater following its 2005 reconstruction.
- Visit the iconic venue featured as a Pit Stop on Season 14 of The Amazing Race.
Visiting tips
Head to the ground floor of the building to locate the lobby and cash register upon arriving at Lenin Square.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Novosibirsk Opera and Ballet Theatre is easy to reach on Novosibirsk’s public transport. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Novosibirsk travel guide.
See the full Novosibirsk travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.