Unique photos: what the Opera Theater district in Kyiv looked like almost 100 years ago

In the capital of the 20th century, the National Academic Opera and Ballet Theater of Ukraine gathered a large audience near it named after T. G. Shevchenko, which is also known as the Kyiv Opera House. trams that passed by the Opera House.

It is interesting to mention that the National Opera of Ukraine named after Taras Shevchenko, also known as the Kyiv Opera House, was built according to the project of the architect Viktor Shreter in the period from 1898 to 1901.

Another photo – 1930-1932. You can see how the National Opera gathered a considerable queue around the entrance, and the front part was decorated with flags.

It was in the 1930s that a plan for the socialist modernization of the Kyiv Theater was considered in order to attract the features of the new “proletarian style”. However, the changes were limited to minor innovations, namely the addition of a two-story rehearsal room to the back of the building.

The third photo was probably taken in 1942. You can see how the majestic facade of the Opera House is being magnified, while passers-by continue to rush about their business. Along with horse-drawn carts, cars were recorded, such a combination can create a certain dissonance.

The next photo is “Kyiv City Opera Theater, the beginning of the 20th century”. The photo has a slightly better quality and allows you to see the decoration of the Opera House. It is an architectural ensemble in the Neo-Renaissance style, captivating with its majesty and perfection.

Its facade, decorated in semi-oval shapes, is richly decorated with stucco, with deep arches that visually lift the building up. Sculptures of mythical winged female figures rise above the main entrance. Originally, a coat of arms with the image of Archangel Michael was supposed to be placed on the roof, but instead allegorical griffins appeared holding a lyre in their paws as a symbol of musical art.

Architect Viktor Shreter paid special attention to the luxurious decoration of the facade, rhythm and general appearance of the theater. In the past, the theater had steam heating, high-quality stage equipment and an air-conditioning system, and was famous for its excellent acoustics. Located on a small square, the theater became the compositional and aesthetic center of the area.

Remember, earlier we showed how the Post Office Square in Kyiv looked in the 19th century.