The Mariinsky Theatre This pre-eminent theatre is better known under its previous name, the Kirov Theatre. It opened in 1860 and has welcomed performances by the likes of Rostropovitch and Nijinski. © Wojtek Buss / Hoa Qui
Mariinski theatre, better known as Kirov, is obviously the best-known. Founded in 1860, it has welcomed great musicians such as Rostropovitch and extraordinary dancers such as Nijinski. It was directed by French choreographer Marius Pepita for a long time, to whom the Russian ballet owes its breakthrough. Among drama theatres, the Bolchoi's is certainly one of the best.