"Behind the Scenes of the Opera" Tour

The tour begins at the Mykola Lysenko monument on Teatralna Square.

The brief outdoor section covers the history of this site and how the landmark visible to modern spectators has evolved over time.

During the tour, visitors will immerse themselves in the theatrical atmosphere and follow the entire path from the foyer to the backstage area. In the auditorium, we will learn about the significant historical and political events that have taken place here.

Backstage, from the side wings, we will encounter the stage, which is nearly ready for the performance: final preparations involve light adjustments, so be prepared for moments of mysterious darkness followed by the blinding glare of the spotlights.

Walking onto the center stage is prohibited, but from behind the wings, we will steal a glance into the still-dormant auditorium. You will be amazed by the abundance of mechanical and lighting equipment in the fly system; you will learn why the extension was needed, why the stage is raked (sloped), why the opera still uses footlights and a prompter, and discover many other nuances. Afterward, you will learn the purpose of the rear stage, what used to be where the former "inner courtyard" is now, and how it relates to the theater's heating system.

You will be introduced to small props, including a variety of imaginative stage properties that lend performances their vividness, realism, or, conversely, a sense of phantasmagoria. Finally, passing through the "utilitarian" backstage area, you will head to the ballet studios, where you will learn about the daily routines an