Lyudmila Kovalevas ballet class (2016 video) Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-21 | Lyudmila Kovalevas ballet class (2016 video)
Inter-union concert Music of a theatre on the historic stage of the Mariinsky Theatre Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-17 | On June 3, 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre historical stage hosted an inter-union concert, "Music of a theatre", dedicated to the 150th anniversary of the Union of Theatre Workers of Russia. The event featured renowned performers including Hibla Gerzmava, Olga Borodina, Tatiana Serjan, Evgenia Muravieva, Irina Churilova, Yevgeny Nikitin, Sergei Skorokhodov, Victoria Tereshkina, Alexander Sergeev, and others, as well as the Mariinsky Theatre Choir and Symphony Orchestra. The program included excerpts from operas, ballets, and orchestral works by Russian and international composers. These world-famous masterpieces were visually brought to life through original set designs inspired by the art and technologies of the future.
The Legend of Love performed by the stellar cast of the Mariinsky Ballet Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-15 | On July 1, 2026, a stellar cast of the Mariinsky Ballet presented Arif Melikov's ballet "The Legend of Love". The leading roles were performed by Victoria Tereshkina, Kimin Kim, and Renata Shakirova."The Legend of Love" was the second ballet by the young Leningrad choreographer Yuri Grigorovich staged at the Kirov – now Mariinsky – Theatre, and it was a ballet that was to change both his life and the destiny of Soviet ballet. As with "The Stone Flower" – his first production at the Kirov Theatre – Grigorovich created "The Legend of Love" together with Simon Virsaladze. The designer executed the sets in the form of an old book, the pages of which are adorned with Arabic script. The characters in "The Legend" as if come down to us from the pages of this book – the proud, cruel and deeply passionate Queen Mekhmeneh Bahnu, who pays the price of her own unparalleled beauty to cure her dying sister Shyrin and the artist Ferkhad, who is captivated by the young and gracious Shyrin and who spurns Mekhmeneh Bahnu’s love...
Wang Danhong Southern Radiance at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-12 | On 24 June, 2026, Daye Lin and the Mariinsky Orchestra presented St Petersburg audiences a work by contemporary Chinese composer Wang Danhong “Southern Radiance”.Wang Danhong was born in Changchun in 1981. She is a resident composer of the China National Traditional Orchestra, a professor of composition and doctoral supervisor at the Central Conservatory of Music, and holds a doctorate degree.
Benjamin Brittens The Turn of the Screw at the Mariinsky Theatre Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-10 | On April 17, 2026, one of the most original operatic works of the 20th century, “The Turn of the Screw” by English composer Benjamin Britten, was performed on the historic stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. The performance timed to coincide with the twentieth anniversary of the work's premiere at the Mariinsky."The Turn of the Screw" first premiered on September 14, 1954, at the Teatro La Fenice in Venice. The opera's plot is based on the mystical novella of the same name by the classic American and European literary figure Henry James. The uniqueness of Britten's opera lies primarily in its intimacy. External events are less important than internal, deeply psychological ones: every detail is precious, and every musical moment is symbolically ambiguous. The predominantly sad and disturbing music conveys the emotional state of the characters, who already sense their fate. Each new decision becomes another "turn of the screw" on the path to a tragic ending.
Maria Bulanovas debut in Pyotr Tchaikovskys ballet Swan Lake Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-08 | On May 30, 2026, the Mariinsky Ballet first soloist, Maria Bulanova, made her matinee debut in the title role of Odette-Odile in Pyotr Tchaikovsky's “Swan Lake”.“Swan Lake” is a ballet without which it is impossible to imagine contemporary classical theatre, and in terms of its psychology it is bang up to date. The classical qualities of “Swan Lake” lie in the precise structural forms, in the strict classical school and in the traditional split of classical and character dance. Its psychology lies in the mysterious theme of duplicity and the well-developed theme of fate and destiny.
Southern Radiance by contemporary Chinese composer Wang Danhong Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-05 | In June 2026, Daye Lin, Music Director and Chief Conductor of the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra, Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of the Wuxi Symphony Orchestra, performed "Southern Radiance" by contemporary Chinese composer Wang Danhong, together with the Mariinsky Theatre Symphony Orchestra. The concert took place at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall as part of the XXXIV Music Festival Stars of the White Nights.
Elena Stikhina in the title role of the opera La forza del destino Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-03 | On June 26, 2026, a star cast of artists performed Giuseppe Verdi's opera "La Forza del Destino" on the historic stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. Elena Stikhina, Akhmed Agadi, Alexey Markov, Elena Gorlo, Yuri Vorobiev, and Alexander Nikitin brilliantly performed the highly complex vocal parts written by the composer for the Italian company, featuring the finest European singers of his time. Conductor Valery Gergiev.In this video, Elena Stikhina tells the story of the heroine of the opera "La Forza del Destino".
Sergei Prokofievs ballet Cinderella on the new stage of the Mariinsky Theatre Mariinsky Theatre 2026-09-01 | There are countless “Cinderella” staged to Prokofiev's music – dancers on pointe, barefoot, in tutus, and in tights. A palace ball doesn't necessarily require diamonds sparkling on lush gowns, or a beautiful fairy with a magic wand performing miracles – in the Mariinsky Theatre production the transformations are performed by a busy old beggar woman with a net of oranges and a retinue of cocky punks, while the Prince carries the coveted slipper in a backpack. This ironic and humorous ballet, even twenty years after its premiere, remains one of the finest examples of the Mariinsky Theatre's contemporary repertoire.
Concert of the White Steamer children’s music festival - Opening of the season at the Concert Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-31 | August 30th, 2026Mariinsky Theatre Concert HallOpening of the season at the Concert HallConcert of the White Steamer children’s music festivalPERFORMERS:Lubov PetrovaMarina VinogradovaIgor MorozovVasily LadyukOleg DidenkoAlexei TikhomirovUnited Chorus of the White Steamer children’s music festivalThe Mariinsky OrchestraConductor: Gurgen PetrosyanHost: Vera KlimanovaMusic for the choir, films and cartoons songsArtistic Director of the White Steamer project: Nikolai Didenko
Abisal Gergiev and Ivan Rudin at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-29 | On July 23, 2026, a concert featuring Abisal Gergiev and Ivan Rudin took place at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall. These remarkable pianists performed Francis Poulenc's Concerto for Two Pianos. The concert also featured symphonic works: Claude Debussy's “Nocturnes” with the Mariinsky Theatre Women's Chorus and Antonín Dvořák's Symphony No. 9 under the direction of Ivan Rudin.
Eva Gevorgyan at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-27 | On June 25, 2026, a stunning concert program took place at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall. The talented pianist Eva Gevorgyan performed George Gershwin's celebrated "Rhapsody in Blue". The Mariinsky Theatre Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Christian Knapp, performed works by Copland, Barber, and Bernstein.In this video, Eva Gevorgyan shares her thoughts on American music and her impressions of collaborating with the Mariinsky Theatre musicians.
Opening of the 244th season at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall - White Steamer Festival Concert Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-26 | Announce of the concert of the White Steamer children’s music festival which opens 244th season at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall
Sergei Rachmaninoff. Musical Momen, Op. 16, No. 5, performed by Abisal Gergiev Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-25 | On June 11, 2026, Abisal Gergiev, Honored Artist of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, gave a solo concert at the Stravinsky Hall of the Mariinsky Theatre. The program included works by Bach, Scriabin, Mahler, Chopin, and Musorgsky, some of which were performed in his own arranges.After the scheduled program, Abisal performed encores. We present a recording of one of them: Sergei Rachmaninoff's Musical Moment.
Music and the Brain – a lecture by Tatyana Chernigovskaya at the Stravinsky Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-22 | On February 26, 2026, a meeting with Tatyana Chernigovskaya took place in the Stravinsky Hall on the New Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. A Doctor of Philology, Doctor of Biological Sciences, professor, Honored Scientist of the Russian Federation, Honored Worker of Higher Education of the Russian Federation, and a participant and presenter of numerous popular science television programs and films – to name just a few of the outstanding researcher's accolades.We present an excerpt from Tatyana Chernigovskaya's lecture "Music and the Brain".
Syrian folk music at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-20 | On April 9, 2026, the "Uniting Worlds" concert took place as part of the International Music Festival "Virtuosi of the Flute" & "Northern Lyre". Artists on folk instruments performed fascinating works on the stage of the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall.Presenting Syrian folk music performed by Feras Charestan (kanun).
Abisal Gergiev, Yan Fang & Sean Yu from Stravinsky Hall of Mariinsky-2 Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-18 | On July 3, 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre's New Stage hosted a piano concert in Stravinsky Hall. Solo performances by Abisal Gergiev, Sean You, and Yan Fang featured works by J. Brahms, S. Rachmaninoff, M. Musorgsky, F. Chopin, S. Prokofiev, and Y. Chengzong.The pianists added dynamic contrast to the event by performing Sergei Rachmaninoff's Romance at one grand piano, playing with six hands. Watch the new Mariinsky-TV feature for insights into their friendship and individual performance styles.
Mozarts Requiem: What was the plan and what went wrong Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-15 | On February 20, 2026, the third evening of the "Mozart. Details" series took place at the Stravinsky Hall. Mozart's "Requiem" was performed by soloists, the choir, and the Mariinsky Theatre Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Konstantin Rylov. But first, the concert's host, renowned musicologist Artyom Vargaftik, shared some important details."Mozart's Requiem: What was the plan and what went wrong". We often forget that Mozart's "Requiem" is an unfinished masterpiece. And a story in which force majeure circumstances intervened at the most exciting point. What would it have sounded like if Mozart had had time to complete the score? And why did the story ultimately turn out to be less about death, the Last Judgment, and repentance, and more about love? And about the lengths people are sometimes willing to go for love? Perhaps with these details, the world's most famous requiem mass will sound a little different – to those who hear it.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky. We sat with you... Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-13 | On March 29, 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall hosted a theatrical concert entitled "How much I cherish the perfect moment". The evening was dedicated to the 70th anniversary of the artistic career of Elena Matusovskaya, Honored Artist of the Russian Federation, laureate of the Onegin National Opera Prize, and accompanist of the Mariinsky Theatre Opera Company.We present a recording of Pyotr Tchaikovsky's romance "We sat with you", performed by Mariinsky Theatre opera company soloist Stepan Zavalishin. At the piano is the incomparable Elena Matusovskaya.
Maurice Ravels Pavane pour une infante défunte performed by Zarina Shimanskaya Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-11 | On April 11, 2026, Zarina Shimanskaya performed a solo program at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall. The extensive program included works by Maurice Ravel and Frédéric Chopin.We present a video excerpt from the concert: Maurice Ravel's "Pavane pour une infante défunte" performed by the talented pianist Zarina Shimanskaya.
The Virtuosi of the Flute & Nothern Lyre festival. Jubilee Year Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-08 | Anniversary dates occurred several times during the 243rd season of the Mariinsky Theatre. The international festival of flute and harp music "Virtuosi of the Flute" & "Northern Lyra" joined this list and for the tenth time united art professionals from Russia and abroad with concerts and master classes. The magnificent ten-day program gathered outstanding performers and led the audience through the halls of the Mariinsky Theatre. The days' intensity is shown in the video. Enjoy watching, and we look forward to seeing you, dear viewer, in the upcoming 244th season at the "Virtuosi of the Flute" & "Northern Lyra" festival!
Mariinsky-3. Concert Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-06 | The history of the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall is a journey from ashes to triumph. Built in 1900 as a decoration shop, it was almost completely destroyed by a fire in 2003, but at the decision of maestro Valery Gergiev, the historical façade was preserved, while a modern glass and metal building designed by Xavier Fabre was erected on the other side. Opened in 2006 thanks to the acoustics of Yasuhisa Toyota, the hall stands alongside the Berlin Philharmonic and Disney Hall. Today, it hosts world premieres, performances by the best orchestras in the world, and houses a unique French organ by Alfred Kern. Full information about M-3 is available on the theatre's website; its life is shown in the film.
Sergey Novikov on the production of Richard Strausss opera Ariadne auf Naxos at the Mariinsky Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-05 | In March 2026, a meeting with stage director Sergey Novikov took place at the Mariinsky Theatre. The discussion centered on Richard Strauss's opera “Ariadne auf Naxos”. As the director noted, ""It's indeed a true opera, but in its final form it encapsulates the entire history of its authors’ conceptual transformations. Hofmannsthal once criticised Strauss for his inclination towards lighter genres, claiming that “the vulgar in him rises like groundwater”, yet he insisted that the comedic heroine Zerbinetta should not disappear towards the end but should sing a few phrases at the curtain. Strauss fulfilled this request by giving Zerbinetta a whispered vocal line, unwilling to disrupt the elevated atmosphere of the final duet between the main characters – Ariadne and Bacchus. Initially skeptical about the concept of this apotheotic duet, Strauss later became enthralled, motivated less by the text and more by his librettist’s explanations.These and other creative dilemmas require a coherent justification on stage. This is the primary challenge for directors, as the sparkling, enchanting and captivating music of the brilliant composer contrasts with the sometimes absurdist words of the eminent writer. Our goal is to tell a compelling story that honors the authors’ intentions. We aim to balance high sentiments and mundane partner changes, merge comedic circumstances with tragic pathos, and bring together characters from opera seria and commedia dell’arte in a single narrative. This is the task our production team endeavored to accomplish to inspire the singers and delight the audience”.
A flight filled with soul. An interview with the sculptor. Mariinsky Theatre 2026-08-04 | On March 28, 2026, the gala concert of the ballet "Flight Filled with Soul" took place on the historic stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. It was dedicated to the memory of the incomparable principal dancer Vladimir Shklyarov. The life of this Honored Artist of Russia was tragically cut short in November 2024. Part of the proceeds will go toward the creation and installation of a monument to the artist. Andrey Korobtsov, a sculptor and member of the Moscow Union of Artists who creates monuments in Russia and abroad, spoke with Mariinsky Theatre choreographer Yuri Smekalov about the secrets of creating the monument, the concept of flight, movement, and the powerful sensations of a "living" sculpture.We present an interview with the sculptor, as well as a story about the various stages of the monument's creation and its final installation at the Smolensky Cemetery.
Chinese conductor Daye Lin on stage at the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-30 | Music Director and Chief Conductor of the Shenzhen Symphony Orchestra, Artistic Director and Chief Conductor of the Wuxi Symphony Orchestra, Daye Lin is also a Distinguished Professor at the China Conservatory of Music in Beijing, an Adjunct Professor at the School of Music of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and a Guest Professor at the Shanghai and Tianjin conservatories of music. In 2012 he won 1st prize at the Sir Georg Solti International Conductors’ Competition in Frankfurt, becoming the first Chinese winner of this prestigious contest. In 2023 he was named one of Shenzhen’s Top Ten Outstanding Young People.On 24 June, 2026, as part of the XXXIV Music Festival “Stars of the White Nights”, Daye Lin and the Mariinsky Orchestra presented a magnificent musical programme to St. Petersburg audiences. The programme included Respighi’s famous “Roman Trilogy”: “Fontane di Roma”, “Pini di Roma” and “Feste Romane”. The programme also included “Southern Radiance” by contemporary Chinese composer Wang Danhong.
The Brilliant Divertissement - Premiere at the Mariinsky Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-28 | The XXXIV Music Festival ""Stars of the White Nights"" opened the Mariinsky Theatre's summer season with a major repertoire update. The June highlight was the premiere of the ballet The Brilliant Divertissement on the Historic Stage.The company’s dancers mastered the formidable challenge, brilliantly bringing to life Leonid Yacobson's inventive choreography set to music by Mikhail Glinka.
Eduardo di Capuas O sole mio performed by soloists of the Mariinsky Theatre Opera Company Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-28 | On March 26, 2026, the Stravinsky Hall hosted the theatrical concert "Three tenors". Mariinsky Theatre opera soloists Alexander Mikhailov, Boris Stepanov, and Klim Tikhonov, along with the incomparable accompanist Ekaterina Ilina, performed a diverse program of works by composers from various eras and nationalities.We invite you to immerse yourself in the concert atmosphere and listen to a recording of Eduardo di Capua's famous work "O sole mio", performed by the Mariinsky Theatre soloists.
Ballet revival: Le Jeune Homme et la Mort Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-23 | The XXXIV Music Festival "Stars of the White Nights" brought a powerful return of Roland Petit’s somber ballet "Le Jeune Homme et la Mort" to the artists and audiences of the Mariinsky Theatre.In 2026, the production underwent its second revival since 2012 and rejoined the theatre's playbill as a signature piece of the Ballet Evening ("Chopiniana", "Brilliant Divertissement", "Le Jeune Homme et la Mort") on the Historic Stage.We present fragments of the performance and candid thoughts from the cast of the premiere: Principal Dancer Viktoria Tereshkina, Premier Kimin Kim, and choreographer Luigi Bonino.
Rehearsals for Roland Petits ballet Le Jeune homme et la mort at the Mariinsky Theatre Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-21 | In June 2026, ballet "Le Jeune homme et la mort" made its long-awaited return to the Mariinsky Theatre repertoire. The production, staged in 1946 in Paris, reflected the spirit of the post-war era and became one of the most well-known works of choreographer Roland Petit and one of the most sought-after ballets by dancers of different generations. Roland Petit initially created the dancing routines for a mini-production to a popular jazz song, but just before the premiere Jean Cocteau, mastermind and source of inspiration for the ballet, suggested changing the music to Bach’s Passacaglia. There was no talk of matching the movements to musical focal points; during the first performance the creators were afraid that the Passacaglia would not be long enough for the choreography. However, thanks to Bach’s music, the theme of an artist’s conversation with death, which is raised in the ballet, has acquired dimension and scope.We present a video of the Mariinsky Theatre Ballet Company's principal dancers, Viktoria Tereshkina and Kimin Kim, preparing for the performance under the direction of choreographer Luigi Bonino.
Vsevolod Zaderatsky. Porcelain Cups at the International Piano Festival Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-18 | On December 25, 2025, a memorial evening for Vsevolod Zaderatsky was held as part of the 20th International Piano Festival. His piano works were performed in the Stravinsky Hall at the Mariinsky Theatre. We present a recording of the piano cycle "Porcelain Cups" performed by Moscow composer and pianist Daniil Ekimovsky. "Porcelain Cups" is a miniature cycle consisting of four movements: "Wildflowers", "Circus Rider", "Drum and Trumpet" and "Merrymaking".
Costumes and sets in the opera La Gioconda Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-16 | Venice on Stage. For the premiere of Amilcare Ponchielli's opera "La Gioconda" at the Mariinsky Theatre, production designer Denis Ivanov created a unique visual code for the production, in which the architecture and spirit of 17th-century Venice are reflected in the costumes and sets. The video continues the story of the painstaking work of the theatre's workshops, showcasing costumes of great beauty, worked out to the smallest detail, and a breathtaking set — a monumental Piazza San Marco, a key scenographic element that instantly transports the viewer to the atmosphere of the city on water.
Revival of the ballet Yaroslavna. Eclipse Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-14 | Nine years ago, in 2017, the Mariinsky Theatre stage became the venue for the premiere of the ballet to the music of Boris Tishchenko, "Yaroslavna. Eclipse". At that time, choreographer Vladimir Varnava combined the composer's complex multilayered score, contemporary dance guided by the principles of classical choreography, contrasting images, and conducted special work with the text of the monument of Old Russian literature — "The Tale of Igor's Campaign". Today, in 2026, the production returns to the stage renewed: a natural creative step and a reinterpretation of the ballet master's professional experience. The continuous rehearsal and staging process in July will showcase the team's work to the audience and present a new edition of the performance for public scrutiny.
Working on the Role: Irina Churilova in La Gioconda Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-11 | On July 3, 2026, the premiere of Amilcare Ponchielli's opera ""La Gioconda"" took place on the New Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. Irina Churilova, a soprano of the Mariinsky Theatre, prepared for one of the most complex and dramatic roles in the repertoire for dramatic soprano — the title part of La Gioconda.This is a role that demands from the artist not only outstanding vocal ability but also considerable acting talent to convey the entire spectrum of the heroine's emotions, from boundless love for Enzo Grimaldo to tragic self-sacrifice.Irina Churilova — a brilliant singer who has conquered the world's leading opera stages — sharing her working process and the unique experience of participating in ""La Gioconda"".
Preparation for the premiere of the Opera La Gioconda by Amilcare Ponchielli Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-10 | The premiere of Amilcare Ponchielli's opera ""La Gioconda"" became a bright star in the repertoire of the Mariinsky Theatre and a major event in its theatrical life, debuting on July 3, 2026, as part of the XXXIV Music Festival ""Stars of the White Nights.""The action of the opera unfolds in 17th-century Venice. At the heart of the plot lies the tragic story of the street singer Gioconda, whose love for the exiled nobleman Enzo Grimaldo collides with the treachery of the inquisitor Barnaba. In the finale, driven by self-sacrifice, Gioconda saves her rival, Laura, but meets her own demise at the hands of the villain upon learning of her mother's death.The director of the production, Orlin Anastasov, spoke about this promising staging and the methods and principles behind its creation.
Pyotr Tchaikovsky. Opera The Queen of Spades at Genius of Place festival 2026 in Votkinsk Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-07 | In 2026, the large-scale ""Genius of the Place"" festival became the third series of musical tributes in the birthplaces of great Russian composers. On May 7, artists from the Mariinsky and Bolshoi Theaters presented Pyotr Tchaikovsky's opera-symphony ""The Queen of Spades"" in Votkinsk. The performance featured a large-scale version by Honored Artist of Russia Alexei Stepanyuk.We present a recording of the performance, starring Dmitry Golovnin, Irina Churilova, Ekaterina Lukash, Anna Kiknadze, Vyacheslav Vasilyev, and Vladislav Kupriyanov. Valery Gergiev conducted.
Rehearsal of the ballet Anna Karenina with Ekaterina Kondaurova in the lead role Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-07 | On October 8, 2022, a rehearsal of the ballet adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's great novel "Anna Karenina" took place at the 4th ballet studio of the Historical Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. This rare video material reveals to the audience the behind-the-scenes of theatrical life, allowing a glimpse into the meticulous work of the ballet dancers. The focus is on the touching plot and the vivid characters of the production. Prima ballerina Ekaterina Kondurova performs the title role of Anna Karenina, Islom Baymuratov appears as Alexei Karenin, and Andrey Yermakov works on the role of Count Vronsky. The colossal work with fragments of the spectacle and the unique interpretation of the roles are a key part of preparing a brilliant stage embodiment.
A large-scale festival of musical offerings Genius of the Place in Oranienbaum Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-04 | On June 20, 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre Symphony Orchestra performed a concert in the Japanese Pavilion of the Grand Menshikov Palace at the Peterhof Museum-Reserve. June traditionally becomes the month of musical tributes to the great composer Igor Stravinsky. A bold innovator, a unique creator, a genius who was ahead of his time and shaped the future of musical art, Stravinsky conquered the world but always remembered his native land. The Mariinsky Theatre annually honors the composer in the first month of summer, and for the third year in a row, the theater company has made a musical tribute to Igor Stravinsky in his birthplace, Oranienbaum, as part of the "Genius of the Place" festival.
Creation of sets for the premiere of Ponchiellis opera La Gioconda Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-02 | On July 3 and 4, 2026, as part of the XXXIV Music Festival Stars of the White Nights, the Mariinsky II will host the premiere performances of a new production of Amilcare Ponchielli's opera La Gioconda. The production was prepared by renowned Bulgarian artists: director Orlin Anastasov and designer Denis Ivanov. Valery Gergiev will conduct all premiere performances.The production's set design is distinguished by its use of incredible innovative technology. The central set is a massive structure weighing fifteen tons and fourteen meters high. This mobile structure, which in some acts resembles a giant wave, towers over the characters and completely immerses the audience in the action. The colorful costumes capture the Italian folk flavor with astonishing precision, evident in the lace, embroidery, and other details. Additionally, approximately sixty carnival masks, adorned with multicolored stones, were specially crafted for the production.
Music festival Genius of the Place in Votkinsk Mariinsky Theatre 2026-07-01 | Valery Gergiev and artists from the Mariinsky and Bolshoi Theatres performed in Votkinsk as part of the "Genius of the Place" festival. The dramatically impeccable opera-symphony "The Queen of Spades", directed by Alexei Stepanyuk, was presented in the birthplace of the outstanding Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky. The leading roles were performed by Dmitry Golovnin, Irina Churilova, Ekaterina Lukash, Anna Kiknadze, Vyacheslav Vasilyev, and Vladislav Kupriyanov. Valery Gergiev conducted.
Zinaida Tsarenko - soloist of the Mariinsky Opera Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-30 | We present a film portrait of Mariinsky Theatre soloist Zinaida Tsarenko. The renowned opera singer was born in Khabarovsk. In 2020 she graduated from the Rimsky-Korsakov St Petersburg State Conservatory (class of Olga Kondina).In 2021 she became a fellow of the Atkins Young Artists Program at the Mariinsky Theatre. In 2016 Zinaida made her debut at the theatre, appearing in a concert by students of Olga Kondina and Vladimir Vaneyev; in 2022 she took part for the first time in a Mariinsky Theatre opera performance, singing the role of Olga in Eugene Onegin (chamber version). Since January 2024 Zinaida Tsarenko has been a soloist with the Mariinsky Opera Company.
The ballet premiere at the Mariinsky Theatre is Leonid Yakobsons Brilliant Divertissement Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-30 | On June 18 and 20, 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre premiered Leonid Yakobson's one-act ballet ""Brilliant Divertissement"" to music by Glinka. The Mariinsky Theatre Company performed the ballet for the first time. Musical Director: Valery Gergiev. Set Designer: Mikhail Sapozhnikov, Lighting Designer: Alexander Naumov, Costume Designer: Anna Yakushchenko.The ever-inventive Leonid Yakobson spared his dancers nothing, creating choreography of dazzling complexity and almost puzzle-like intricacy. The production has already marked its fiftieth anniversary, yet even today few soloists can master its elaborate combinations. In this witty journey to an old-time ball, dancers must not only display the full brilliance of classical technique but also sustain the ironic affectation of manners conceived by this choreographer of boundless imagination.
Concert to the Day of Russia Mariinsky musical dynasties Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-27 | On June 12, 2026, the Prokofiev Hall hosted a unique concert, "Mariinsky musical dynasties to the Day of Russia". On this momentous day, beloved Mariinsky Theatre artists performed for the audience, along with their children – talented young instrumentalists, vocalists, and dancers, future stars of the big stage. The concert featured the Mariinsky Theatre Children's Choir (choirmaster Irina Yatsemirskaya). Conductor: Larisa Gabitova.The idea and organizer of the event was Sofia Kiprskaya, concertmaster of the Mariinsky Theatre's harp section. The curator was Olga Shaikhudinova (Okhromenko), soloist of the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra, and the director was Sergey Bogoslavsky. The program included masterpieces by great Russian and foreign composers, as well as works by contemporary musicians who are also artists of the Mariinsky Theatre.
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozarts opera Idomeneo, re di Creta on the new stage of the Mariinsky Theatre Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-25 | "Idomeneo" first appeared on the Mariinsky Theatre stage in the 2008–09 season. The universal nature of the myth allowed the Austrian creative team, led by director Michael Sturminger, to relocate the opera’s action to the present day. In recent years, as the Mariinsky Theatre has broadened the stylistic scope of its repertoire, it has increasingly turned to the music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.In 2022 "Idomeneo" returned to the repertoire and was performed regularly at the Concert Hall in semi-staged versions. Several casts of singers have mastered the exceptionally demanding roles of Mozart’s opera seria in its various editions.In 2026, 245 years after its world premiere, the Mariinsky Theatre brings "Idomeneo" to the grand stage of Mariinsky II.
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Opera The Golden Cockerel at Genius of Place festival 2026 in Tikhvin Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-24 | In 2026, the large-scale "Genius of the Place" festival became the third series of musical tributes in the birthplaces of great Russian composers. On March 22 two performances of the magical opera "The Golden Cockerel", directed by Anna Shishkina, took place at the N. A. Rimsky-Korsakov Palace of Culture in Tikhvin.We present a recording of the evening's performance, starring Andrei Serov, Andrei Popov, Olga Pudova, Anna Kiknadze, Marina Tekhteleva, Miroslav Molchanov, Gamid Abdulov, and Anatoly Mikhailov. The performance featured the Mariinsky Theatre Chorus. Conducting the Mariinsky Theatre Symphony Orchestra was Valery Gergiev.
Maria Ilyushkina and Even Capitaine made their debut in the ballet The Stone Flower Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-23 | In April 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre returned to the original version of Sergei Prokofiev's ballet “The Stone Flower”, created in 1957. Libretto by Mira Mendelssohn-Prokofieva and Leonid Lavrovsky, revised by Yuri Grigorovich after motifs of the Ural tales The Malachite Box by Pavel Bazhov.On April 25, 2026, Maria Iliushkina performed the role of The Mistress of the Copper Mountain for the first time on the historic stage of the Mariinsky Theatre, and Even Capitaine made his debut in the role of Danila.Maria Iliushkina graduated from the Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet in 2016 (class of Yulia Kasenkova). Joined the Mariinsky Ballet in 2016. Soloist from 2020. Principal since 2025.Even Capitaine is a graduate of the Ballet School of the Opéra national de Paris (France), and the Belarusian State Choreographic College. In 2023 he joined the Mariinsky Theatre as the first soloist.
The Mariinsky Theatre presents the Kaleidoscope of Concert Programs Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-20 | On April 23, 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall hosted a performance of works by Waxman, Saint-Saëns, Scriabin, and Ravel as part of the "Kaleidoscope of Concert Programs" subscription series. The concert featured soloists Abisal Gergiev, renowned pianist and Honored Artist of the Kabardino-Balkarian Republic, and Elena Tarosyn, a distinguished violinist and winner of the 17th International Tchaikovsky Competition. Yuri Demidovich, Artistic Director of the Komi Republic Opera and Ballet Theatre (Syktyvkar), conducted the concert.
Creating sets for the premiere of the opera The Miserly Knight at the Mariinsky Theatre Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-18 | In April 2026, the Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall hosted the premiere of a new production of Sergei Rachmaninoff's chamber masterpiece, the one-act opera "The Miserly Knight". The opera is based on one of the "Little Tragedies" by Alexander Pushkin, Rachmaninoff's favorite writer. The composer wrote the libretto himself, thus giving the great Russian poet's timeless plot – with its profound tragedy, terrible secrets, and the all-too-high price of deception – a magnificent musical embodiment.We present a video about the work of the Mariinsky Theatre's set design department. Set and costume designer Anna Podvolotskaya talks about preparing the sets for the premiere of the opera "The Miserly Knight".
Golden Cockerel during music festival Genius of the Place in Tikhvin Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-17 | In 2026, the large-scale ""Genius of the Place"" festival became the third series of musical tributes in the birthplaces of great Russian composers. All concerts and performances, which combine the creative talents of Russia's two main stages, traditionally sell out. ""Genius of the Place"" is one of the most anticipated events of the spring for both artists and audiences.On March 22 two performances of the magical opera ""The Golden Cockerel"", directed by Anna Shishkina, took place at the N. A. Rimsky-Korsakov Palace of Culture in Tikhvin. This magical family-friendly production premiered this season, immediately captivating audiences.
Graduation Performances of the Vaganova Ballet Academy at the Mariinsky Theatre Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-16 | In June 2026, the Vaganova Ballet Academy presents graduation performances at the Mariinsky Theatre. The traditional final performances showcase the mastery of the ballet school. The graduation program consists of several sections and includes highly complex classical pieces. Many graduates of the Vaganova Ballet Academy receive invitations to perform at leading Russian theaters, such as the Mariinsky and Bolshoi Theatres, immediately after the performance.
But I Live!.. - a musical and dramatic performance based on the stories of N. Teffi Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-13 | On May 28, 2026, the musical and dramatic performance "But I Live!.." premiered at the Prokofiev Hall of the Mariinsky Theatre. The one-woman show is based on the stories of Nadezhda Teffi. Directed by Olga Skripacheva. Music by Vartan Gnoro. Performed by artists of the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra: Anna Shoka (reciter), Vitaly Papyrin (clarinet), Andrei Dikoyev (accordion), and Trofim Konvisarov (piano). This performance is about life, love, loneliness, and childhood! It explores the importance of remaining alive, despite the circumstances and twists of fate, never ceasing to feel, and being able to say to oneself, "But I live!.."
An interview with Mariinsky Theatre editor Khristina Batyushina about Wagners opera Tannhäuser Mariinsky Theatre 2026-06-11 | Khristina Batyushina, candidate of art history, is an editor in the publishing department of the Mariinsky Theatre. Batyushina is actively involved in creating materials for productions and organizing cultural exhibitions, as well as authoring introductory texts and articles accompanying major performances. In March 2026, Khristina Batyushina spoke about opera “Tannhäuser” in an interview.In April 1842, Richard Wagner was returning with his wife Minna from Paris to Dresden. The route passed through Thuringia, past the famous Wartburg castle, where knight-poets once competed in singing competitions and where the first German saint, Elizabeth of Thuringia, lived. Inspired by the beautiful scenery and folk legends, Wagner conceived “Tannhäuser”. Several versions exist: the first (1845), the Dresden (1847), the Paris (1861), the Munich (1867), and the Vienna (1875). In 2019, the Mariinsky Theatre staged “Tannhäuser” in the Dresden version at the Concert Hall.
