There are many cultural events held in Saint Petersburg every week. However, our foreign guests might face a small problem: most of these events are in Russian. We’ve made a short guide to the performances that are interesting to watch, no matter, if you speak Russian or not. We are sure you will enjoy the show!
Ballet and Opera
The great thing about ballet is that you can truly enjoy it regardless what language you speak. Talking about opera, normally there are screens with subtitles in the theatres. In Mariinsky theatre they show subtitles in Russian and English languages on big screens, to keep the audience updated on the storyline.
Read the article “5 Places to Watch Ballet and Opera in Saint Petersburg”
The Ice Show
It is a unique combination of classical dance and figure skating. Get a memorable experience watching the famous Nutcracker and the Sleeping Beauty ballets performed by dancers on skates instead of ballet shoes!
http://www.balletonice.spb.ru/newsen.html
The Philharmonic Society
St. Petersburg Academic Philharmonia n.a. Shostakovich is the oldest philharmonic society in Russia, it comprises two halls. A great variety of concerts with the finest Russian and worldwide famous performers take place here. It is definitely a place to go if you appreciate classical music.
https://www.philharmonia.spb.ru/en/afisha/?d=15
The Big Puppet Theatre
It is a great option for foreign theatre lovers as most of the performances are wordless.
Here you can watch pantomimes and puppet shows for kids and adults. They can be funny or philosophical, based on famous books or just on a fantasy of the stage director.
Unfortunately their website doesn’t have an English version, but you can ask for schedules or other assistance on their Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/puppets.ru/
Immersive Performance
Immersive shows have been a trend in Russia for the past few years. The idea is to give the spectator the feeling that he or she participates in the performance.
One of the most popular shows is “The Revenants”, an immersive performance based on the play “Ghosts” by Henrik Ibsen.
Check the website for more details http://bezlikie.show/en/about/
Circus
You have a chance to watch traditional circus in Saint Petersburg: impressive acrobatics, highly skilled performers and colourful costumes. However, skip this one if you are against involvement of animals in entertainment performances.
Listen to Jazz
Listening to jazz is a nice relaxing way to spend the evening after a busy tourist day. Informal jam sessions or concerts with professional musicians - both options are available. Here are some suggestions for you:
· The Hat Bar
· Dom 7 Jazz Bar
· 48 Chairs
· JFC Jazz Club
· Police Station Jazz Club
· Jazz Philharmonic Hall http://jazz-hall.com/
