Latvian National Opera and Ballet serves as the State Theatre for the promotion and development of opera and ballet. Established in 1918, the institution shapes and implements its artistic policy under the leadership of Chairman of the Board Sandis Voldiņš, alongside Board Member Astra Irmeja-Šēfere, Chief Conductor Mārtiņš Ozoliņš, and Artistic Director of Latvian National Ballet Aivars Leimanis.
Latvian National Opera and Ballet’s productions celebrate the values of classical and romantic art while also embracing contemporary forms of expression. Great importance is always placed on the creation and staging of new Latvian operas and ballets, thus contributing to the development of the genre in Latvia. Open to both the Latvian public and the world, the company regularly collaborates with outstanding guest soloists, conductors, choreographers, stage directors, stage designers, costume designers, and lighting and video designers, both at home and abroad.
Today, Latvian National Opera and Ballet is a repertoire theatre, presenting opera and ballet performances. The season concludes with Riga Opera Festival, which features both new productions and acclaimed performances from previous seasons. As per tradition, the festival and the entire season culminate in a spectacular Gala Concert. Over the course of a season, the company stages more than 200 performances and typically produces five new opera and ballet productions each year.
Latvian National Opera house is a stately neo-classical building in central Riga, originally constructed in 1863 by architect Ludwig Bohnstedt. The historic Great Hall seats nearly 1,000 spectators, while the more intimate New Hall accommodates 241 guests.
