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The Bolshoi Theatre: the most iconic Cultural landmark of Moscow 
  

 

Bolshoi Theatre Interior Decor, after renovation 2011

 

 

 

 

  Did you know:

  

 

  • The Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow, Russia, is one of the greatest ballet and opera theatres in the world. Internationally acclaimed and rated as high as La Scala in Italy and Covent Garden in U.K., the Bolshoi theatre is by right the pride of Russian culture and one of Moscow's top attractions 

  • Literally translated, Bolshoi Theatre means "Big Theater"

     

  • The Bolshoi Theatre was founded in 1776 by Catherine the Great

  • The Bolshoi is among the oldest ballet companies in the world

  • The Bolshoi only achieved worldwide acclaim, however, in the early 20th century when Moscow became the capital of Soviet Russia

  • Along with the Mariinsky Ballet in St. Petersburg, the Bolshoi is recognized as one of the foremost ballet companies in Russia and in the world 

  • The main building is a spectacular work of architecture and was reopened in October 2011 after an extensive and ambitious six-year renovation. The renovation restored the original Imperial decor of the Bolshoi and brought acoustics to the original quality
     

  • As part of renovation, the unique Venetian mosaic floor was restored, as well as the sound reflecting moldings of papier-mache with woodwork and gilding

  • The stage of the theatre is equipped with the most powerful hydraulic mechanism in the world. About 50 tons of water is used for its work

  • The theatre cooperates with the Paris Opera and other world-class theatres as Covent Garden, La Scala and many European National Operas

  • 13 new plays are performed during a theatrical season