The Epitome Of Russian Art And Culture
The Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow represents the very finest of Russian artistry. Tracing its history back to 1776, the theatre has been the site of many a famed performance. The theatre building is also one of Moscow's biggest tourist attractions, boasting spectacular architecture and refurbished stages.
As one of the world's best equipped theatres, the Bolshoi hosts at least two dozen shows each year. The theatre offers audiences a taste of world-class opera, symphony concerts and ballet on both their historical stage and new stage venue, which was built in 2005. Prior to the widespread outbreak of the
COVID-19 virus, the Bolshoi was due to present a number of ballets, operas and concerts throughout the spring season. However, they have since been forced to postpone all performances until a later date.
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Bolshoi Theatre[/caption]
History In The Making
What comes to mind when you think of a Russian opera house? Surely not cutting-edge technology and innovative thinking. But, that's where you would be wrong! In a bid to bring a little joy to their audiences in isolation, the Bolshoi Theatre have gone digital. On
Friday, 27 March 2020, the theatre launched their first ever live streaming platform via their
YouTube channel.
The company has committed to screening their most popular opera and ballet performances for free to fans across the globe. Known as the
Golden Collection, this live stream series has featured
Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, The Tsar's Bride, Marco Spada, Boris Godunov and The Nutcracker. The lineup for the month of May is just as exciting, featuring two ballets and a stunning Russian epic told through sweepingly beautiful song.
These shows will premiere between
at 19:00 Moscow time (that's 18:00 Johannesburg time). All you have to do is subscribe to their YouTube channel and get ready to dive into a world of theatrical wonder! As a special bonus, the Bolshoi will also be offering a
live chat service during each live stream session. So, come and interact with fellow theatre lovers from across the globe and feel a little less alone.
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Here is the official lineup for the Bolshoi Theatre's live stream series:
Sunday, 03 May 2020:
Light Stream (a ballet in two acts)
Thursday, 07 May 2020:
Don Quixote
Monday, 11 May 2020:
Sadko (a opera epic in seven scenes)
Go on a virtual tour of the Bolshoi!
The Bolshoi is undoubtedly one of the most exquisite theatre buildings in the world. Take a virtual tour of the
historical stage and the
new stage through Google Arts and Culture. Look out onto the sprawling auditorium from the stage and sing your heart out, or pop into a VIP box to get the full view of the Bolshoi's stages. It's a great way to pass the time while waiting for their live stream performances to begin. Have fun!
For More Information
Visit the
Bolshoi Theatre's website for more information.
So you're into the arts? Please support other live stream initiatives and virtual tours during this difficult period. 
