Welcome to Astana Opera, a magnificent cultural landmark in Astana, Kazakhstan. Constructed on a 9-hectare site between 2010 and 2013, this venue was built following an executive order by Nursultan Nazarbayev, who also partially contributed to its design. Built by the Mabetex Group, it is considered the third largest opera house in the world and serves as a premier destination for performing arts lovers.
Inside, you will marvel at architecture inspired by Ancient Greek styles combined seamlessly with traditional national heritage, including beautiful frescoes depicting Burabay and the Sharyn Canyon. Look up in the 13-meter-high concourse to admire a striking 1.6-ton chandelier. The venue features two main performance spaces: a 1,250-seat Main Hall complete with an orchestra pit accommodating up to 120 musicians, and a 250-seat Chamber Hall dedicated to chamber music concerts.
World-class acoustics designed by Italians Enrico Moretti of Biobyte and Maria Cairoli ensure an exceptional auditory experience. The resident troupe, whose orchestra is 90% young musicians, performs famous masterpieces like La traviata, Tosca, and The Nutcracker, alongside renowned Kazakh national operas such as Abai and Birzhan and Sara. You will also find an on-site restaurant and rehearsal facilities.
What to see at Astana Opera
- Marvel at the massive 1.6-ton chandelier hanging in the 13-meter-high concourse.
- Experience world-class acoustics designed by Italian specialists Enrico Moretti and Maria Cairoli.
- See Greek-inspired architecture blended with national Kazakh frescoes of Burabay and Sharyn Canyon.
- Enjoy performances in the 1,250-seat Main Hall or intimate chamber concerts in the 250-seat Chamber Hall.
Visiting tips
Check the performance schedule to catch the house's resident orchestra and troupe performing classic international masterworks or national Kazakh operas.
How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Evening for performances
How to get there & what’s nearby
Astana Opera is easy to reach on Astana’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Nur-Astana Mosque and Bayterek. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Astana travel guide.
See the full Astana travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.