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Old Theatre of Vilnius

About

The Old Theatre of Vilnius, originally opened in 1913 as the Pohulanka Theatre, stands as a cultural landmark in the city’s Old Town. Designed by Wacław Michniewicz and Aleksander Parczewski, the building reflects neo-baroque and neoclassical influences and was initially funded by Vilnius’s Polish community. Over the decades, it has hosted Polish, Russian, Lithuanian, and Jewish performances, embodying the city’s multicultural spirit. The theatre played a pivotal role in Lithuania’s history, notably hosting the 1917 Lithuanian Conference that led to the country’s independence. Renamed in 2022 in response to shifting geopolitical contexts, it now operates as the Old Theatre of Vilnius, continuing its legacy as a dynamic space for drama, opera, and experimental performance. With a rich repertoire and a commitment to artistic diversity, the theatre remains a vital hub for cultural dialogue and creative expression in Lithuania’s capital.

Vilnius Lithuania
Old Theatre of Vilnius
Location

The Old Theatre of Vilnius is located at Jonas Basanavičius Street 13, in Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic theatre building dates back to 1913 when it was constructed as the Pohulanka Theatre, originally hosting Polish theatre companies. Over the years, it became Lithuania’s only professional theatre performing exclusively in Russian. The architecture of the building elegantly blends Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque styles, featuring a grand hall with a historic chandelier adorned with masks and crystal. The theatre has witnessed significant historical events, including discussions on Lithuania's independence in 1917, and has been home to numerous renowned theatrical personalities. Nearby, visitors can explore the vibrant Old Town with its cultural landmarks, shops, cafes, and historic sites, providing a rich artistic and historical environment around this iconic theatre.

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