Bolshoi Theatre renovated

In Moscow, the main stage at the State Academic Bolshoi Theatre of Russia (box office phone +7 [499] 250-73-17) has reopened after six years.

Restoration work was done on the auditorium frescoes, gold leaf was replaced and the crystal chandelier was renovated. On the main curtain, the Russian eagle symbol has replaced the hammer and sickle. Now, below the main stage is a rehearsal stage of the same size, and the orchestra pit is bigger.

During restoration, all ballet, opera and philharmonic performances used the smaller “New Stage.” Performances now will be held on both stages.

Tickets ($65 to $500, depending on performance and seat) can be purchased at the box office or on the website. To help combat “scalping,” verification of ID (for a foreign visitor, valid passport) is now required when ordering and picking up advance-sale tickets.