Once a warehouse for ballet decorations. Now, it’s the New Stage of the Alexandrinsky Theatre. This is no ordinary theater. Opened in 2013 it’s a unique multifunctional theatrical center. You won’t find anything like it in Russia or the West.
The New Stage of the Alexandrinsky Theatre sits alongside the main Alexandrinsky Theatre. It is located between Ostrovsky Square and Fontanka River embankment. The complex blends into the historic cityscape.
The New Stage of the Alexandrinsky Theatre embraces experiment and innovation. It aims to connect with contemporary culture. This venue wants to bridge the gap between modern theater and the public.
The project was developed by the architectural firm Zemtsov, Kondiayn and Partners. Yuri Zemtsov was the chief architect. Initially the building was planned to be six stories tall. Concerns from the Committee for City Planning and Architecture led to a reduction. The building was shortened to three stories. This ensured the Fontanka panorama remained intact.
The total area of the New Stage is 10,500 square meters. It can accommodate up to 500 people. The venue includes six public spaces. These include the New Stage itself. There is also a Media Center. A rehearsal stage and a Black Hall are included. You will also find a Conference Hall.
The New Stage is integrated into a historic storage building. This building once housed ballet set decorations. It was built in the 1890s and 1891s. Architect Alexander Geshvend designed it in the “кирпичном” style. The historical facades were carefully restored. The walls of the auditorium were preserved. A through passage runs under the New Stage. It connects Zodchego Rossi Street to Fontanka.
The New Stage of the Alexandrinsky Theatre is a modern cultural space. It hosts many events. These include music programs. It’s equipped with advanced lighting, sound and video equipment. The Media Center hosts lectures and master classes. It also hosts film screenings. The theater presents over 120 productions each season. Among them are four to five premieres. Productions by Valeria Fokina are performed here.
The New Stage of the Alexandrinsky Theatre has become a cultural hub. It combines history with modern theatrical innovation. This is where tradition meets the future of Russian theater.