Yerevan Opera Theater

When you visit Yerevan, Armenia, you cannot miss the Alexander Spendiaryan National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre, simply known to locals as 'Opera'. Designed by famed architect Alexander Tamanian, this landmark venue broke ground in 1930 and officially opened its doors in 1933. Named after composer Alexander Spendiaryan, whose opera Almast marked its historic debut, the striking building was fully completed in 1953.

Step inside to admire a masterwork of Armenian architecture housing two distinct venue spaces: the Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall offering 1,300 seats and the Alexander Spendiaryan Opera and Ballet National Theatre featuring about 1,070 seats. Over the decades, the stage has hosted more than 200 different operas and ballets by Armenian, Russian, and Western European creators. You can experience rich cultural traditions by taking in iconic works like Armen Tigranian's Anoush, performed here since 1935, or masterpieces by Aram Khachaturian, who birthed the first Armenian ballet Happiness on this very site.

Beyond classical opera and ballet troupe productions—ranging from Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake to international visiting shows—the venue grounds have hosted memorable concerts from global icons like Charles Aznavour and even a famous outdoor performance near Swan Lake.

What to see at Yerevan Opera Theater

• Designed by architect Alexander Tamanian and officially opened in 1933.
• Features two halls: Aram Khachaturian Concert Hall and Alexander Spendiaryan Theatre.
• Staged over 200 operas and ballets, including historic Armenian works like Anoush.
• Hosted famous musical acts including Charles Aznavour and an outdoor concert by Kanye West near Swan Lake.

Visiting tips

Check the schedule to catch legendary Armenian operas like Armen Tigranian's Anoush or visiting international troupe performances.

How long: 2-3 hours · Best time: Evening for performances

How to get there & what’s nearby

Yerevan Opera Theater is easy to reach on Yerevan’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Blue Mosque and Erebuni Fortress. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Yerevan travel guide.