Russian Drama Theater of Lithuania

The Russian Drama Theater of Lithuania, founded in 1946, is a cultural landmark in Vilnius dedicated to Russian-language performing arts. Housed in a striking neoclassical building on Jono Basanavičiaus Street, the theater stages a diverse repertoire of plays, operas, and ballets, often featuring works by Russian classics like Chekhov and Gogol, as well as contemporary productions. The interior boasts ornate chandeliers, red velvet seating, and excellent acoustics. Visitors can enjoy a full evening of entertainment, from drama to musical performances, with translations available via surtitles. The theater also hosts international festivals and guest performances, making it a hub for cross-cultural exchange in the Baltics.

Don't miss

• Watch a Russian-language play, opera, or ballet in an intimate setting
• Admire the neoclassical architecture and lavish interior decor
• Check for surtitles in Lithuanian or English for non-Russian speakers
• Attend an international festival or guest performance
• Explore the nearby Gediminas Tower and Vilnius Old Town before the show

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Russian Drama Theater of Lithuania

Cheapest way inRegular walking tour of Soviet Vilnius4.9★ · 272 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →Most bookedRegular walking tour of Jewish Vilnius4.9★ · 192 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$26 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleDinner with a local family5★ · 19 travelers~3 hoursFrom$95 per personSee dates →

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How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Check the program in advance; many performances are in Russian with surtitles.
• Smart casual attire is appropriate; formal for premieres.
• Turn off phones and avoid photography during performances.
• The theater has a bar for intermission drinks.

A bit of history

The theater was established in 1946 during the Soviet era to serve the Russian-speaking population. After Lithuania's independence, it continued operating, adapting to new audiences while preserving its Russian heritage. The building itself dates to the early 20th century and has undergone renovations.