Theatres

The Opera House The Opera House is one of the best in Europe , goes after Vienna Opera House from architecture standpoint.

Exquisite inside decor in the style of Viennese baroque blended with elements of the Italian Renaissance and French rococo, sculptural groups taken from Greek mythology, the stucco moldings and guilt friezes combined with the red velvet of the seats and boxes – all this tends to create a special atmosphere.

There is a viewing platform on the roof of this tremendous building from which the whole city could be observed. Now the Theatre is under renovation but performs on normal basis. 

Ballet is really good, though actors might not impress you as much as the room.

Tel. 29-13-29.

Musical Comedy Theater

Modern building in the beginning of old-fashioned Frantsuzsky (French) Boulevard near central Odessa beaches. Musicals, rock concerts, comedians and touring shows appear here. Quality varies. Call ahead to find out what's on.

Address: Panteleymonovskaya str., 3.

Tel. 25-09-24 .

Russian Dramatic Theater

Dramas and comedies in Russian. Good to excellent dramas and comedies, performers and stage personnel at times perform miracles on shoestring budgets. Beware, some plays are more avant-garde than entertaining.

Address: Grecheskaya str., 28.

Tel. 22-72-50

Philharmonic Orchestra

Conducted by American Hobart Earle, the Odessa Philharmonic Orchestra is comparable to all but the very best European orchestras, and Earle is much more entertaining. A must-see if the orchestra is not touring abroad, so call ahead.

Address: Bunina, 15.

Tel. 25-69-03

Circus

Don't go unless you're taking the kids. And if you don't like to watch underfed trained cats and dogs perform, avoid the circus altogether.

Address: Koblevskaya, 25.

Tel. 22-19-73

Puppet Theater

Various puppet shows in Russian. Located in the same building as the Ukrainian Theater.

Address: Pastera (Pasteur) str. 15.

Tel. 23-72-93