Mongolian State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater stands as a testament to artistic ambition and cultural heritage. Its architectural design was crafted by the esteemed architect Gerhard Kozel. The building, constructed between the lush landscapes of the Terelj region, showcases timber that was meticulously prepared and transported via raft down the scenic Tuul River, culminating in its completion in 1948.
The journey to its creation began when J. Sambuu, Mongolia’s ambassador to the Soviet Union from 1941 to 1942, advocated for the expertise of Soviet specialists. When Kozel posed the question, “Should we build a national theater?” Sambuu’s vision was clear: “We want to have classical stage art.” This vision took root and flourished over the years, culminating in Kozel’s return to Mongolia in 1968, where he marveled at the vibrant life and cultural significance his work had fostered.
The transformation came in 1963, when the State Musical Drama Theater evolved into the Mongolian State Drama Theater and the State Opera and Ballet Theater. This pivotal change, finalized on May 15, heralded the establishment of two independent theatrical entities dedicated to the performing arts. Just days later, on May 18, the State Opera and Ballet Theater welcomed audiences in its grand new home with a stunning performance of P.I. Tchaikovsky’s renowned opera “Eugene Onegin.”
Since its inception, the theater has proudly staged over 20 masterpieces of world-class ballet, enchanting audiences with works such as G. Puccini’s “Cio Cio San,” “Beautiful Tosca,” and P. Tchaikovsky’s beloved ballets “The Nutcracker,” “Giselle,” “The Sleeping Beauty,” and the timeless classic “Swan Lake.” The repertoire extends to celebrated operas by composers like G. Verdi, whose “La Traviata” and “Il Trovatore” take center stage, alongside enduring works by W. Mozart, including “Don Giovanni” and “The Fountain of Bakhchisarai.” Additionally, the theater showcases a rich array of around 30 national operas, reflecting Mongolia’s unique cultural narratives, such as “Uchirtai Gurvan Tolgoi,” “Jargaliin Zam ”/The Path of Happiness/ and the epic saga of “Genghis Khan.”
In July 1981, amidst celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of the People’s Revolution, the theater was bestowed the prestigious title of “Academic,” recognizing its exceptional contribution to the arts and culture of Mongolia. Thus, the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater remains a beacon of artistic excellence and a cherished cornerstone of the nation’s heritage.
