Sovremennik Theatre Moscow
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Sovremennik Theatre Moscow

4.7
·3k reviews·Moskva, Russia

A legendary Moscow theatre founded by actors, renowned for its bold contemporary plays and captivating performances.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

CrowdMedium
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Sovremennik Theatre Moscow

Sovremennik Theatre Moscow

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A legendary Moscow theatre founded by actors, renowned for its bold contemporary plays and captivating performances.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"The theatre is outstanding and a great place to see what Russian theatrical tradition is about."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book tickets in advance

Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your seats early for the best experience.

👟 Dress comfortably

While classy, comfort is key due to potentially tight seating.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Acclaimed Contemporary Plays

Acclaimed Contemporary Plays

Experience cutting-edge drama from modern playwrights, showcasing Russia's vibrant theatrical scene.

Star Power Performances

Star Power Performances

Main Stage

Witness renowned actors like Makovetski bring classic and modern stories to life with captivating performances.

Minimalist Stage Design

Minimalist Stage Design

Appreciate the understated elegance of the theatre's minimalistic decorations and costumes that focus attention on the actors.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Sovremennik Theatre is a renowned drama theatre in Moscow, so popular performances sell out quickly. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred seats and avoid disappointment, especially for shows featuring well-known actors.

Comfort and Accessibility

Auditorium seating can be tight with narrow rows and small chairs. Consider this if you're tall or prefer ample legroom. Arrive early to navigate the potentially crowded cloakroom and find your seat comfortably.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend matinees
Why
Good for families, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

How do you Moskva?

🎟️ Book tickets in advance

Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your seats early for the best experience. Reddit

👟 Dress comfortably

While classy, comfort is key due to potentially tight seating. Reddit

reddit.com

Moskva worth to get in 2024?

reddit.com

How would you rate Moskva?

📱 Silence your phone

Be mindful of others; avoid using phones during the performance. Reddit

🚶 Arrive early

Allow time for cloakroom queues and finding your seat without rush. Reddit

reddit.com

Is Moskva good?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book tickets in advance

Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your seats early for the best experience. Reddit

👟 Dress comfortably

While classy, comfort is key due to potentially tight seating. Reddit

📱 Silence your phone

Be mindful of others; avoid using phones during the performance. Reddit

🚶 Arrive early

Allow time for cloakroom queues and finding your seat without rush. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Sovremennik Theatre is a highly regarded drama venue known for its compelling contemporary plays and strong performances by talented actors. While the artistic quality is consistently praised, some visitors find the auditorium seating to be uncomfortable and cramped, with narrow rows and small chairs. The small cloakroom area can also lead to congestion. Reddit

"Went to watch "The curious incident of the dog in the night-time".
I absolutely didn't like this performance.
The main hero was hysterically screaming at the top of his lungs in the unpleasant voice during all 3 hours.
I read the book and that was absolutely not how I pictured Christopher Boone in my head.
But I must admit that apart from talking actor played well as well as the rest of the cast. The decorations and costumes are minimalistic.
However the auditorium was awful! Uncomfortable little chairs, rows are so narrow that you bump your knees on the chairs in front (good luck if you get a big neighbour). The passage between first and last rows (8 or 9 in total) can fit only 1 person and limited by flimsy railing.
In case of emergency like a fire alarm people will just trample each other down. Or fall from a height of 2,5 metres."

Jane Raspopova

"The theater has fame and glory. As far as I am concerned, everyone should visit it to enjoy plays."

Alexander Potapov

"It is a well-known and popular drama theatre in Moscow. Cloakroom area (also crush room) is quite small, so expect to be 'sandwiched' by the other spectators while queuing for cloakroom at the end of performance."

Denis Shestakov

What People Like

Acclaimed contemporary plays
Talented actor performances
Classy establishment feel

What People Dislike

Uncomfortable seating
Narrow rows
Small cloakroom

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The theatre is centrally located and easily accessible by Moscow's metro system. The nearest metro stations are often within walking distance. Many visitors also find it convenient to take a taxi or ride-sharing service directly to the theatre's address. Walking through the garden circle area is also a pleasant approach. Reddit

Parking in central Moscow can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or ride-sharing services rather than driving and searching for parking near the theatre. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy walking to the theatre, especially if staying nearby. The area around the garden circle is described as very nice, with a pleasant walk past a little pond. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can typically be purchased online through the official Sovremennik Theatre website or authorized ticketing platforms. It's also possible to buy them at the box office, but booking in advance is strongly advised for popular shows. Reddit

Information on discounts can vary by performance and theatre policy. It's best to check the official theatre website or contact the box office directly for details on any available concessions. Reddit

Box office hours can vary. It's advisable to check the Sovremennik Theatre's official website for the most up-to-date information on their operating hours. Reddit

While it might be possible for some less popular shows, it's risky to rely on same-day tickets. For a guaranteed experience, especially for well-known plays or actors, booking well in advance is crucial. Reddit

Refund and exchange policies are set by the theatre and can vary. Review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office for specific details. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The auditorium seating has been described as uncomfortable, with small chairs and narrow rows that can lead to bumping knees. The passage between rows is also narrow and limited by a railing, raising safety concerns for some. Reddit

Accessibility information should be confirmed directly with the theatre. Given the descriptions of narrow passages and limited space, it's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility features and seating arrangements beforehand. Reddit

The atmosphere can be impacted by audience behavior. While many appreciate the theatrical tradition, some reviews mention distractions like cell phone usage during performances, which can detract from the experience. Reddit

The cloakroom area is noted as being quite small, leading to 'sandwiched' conditions when queuing at the end of a performance. Expect potential queues and a crowded space. Reddit

Age recommendations vary per play. It's best to check the specific show's details on the theatre's website for suitability, especially for performances with mature themes or content. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the theatre itself might have limited refreshment options, the surrounding area, particularly the garden circle, offers various cafes and restaurants. It's a good idea to dine before or after the show. Reddit

Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the auditorium. There may be a bar or kiosk selling refreshments during intermissions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography, especially flash photography, is generally prohibited inside the auditorium during performances to avoid disturbing the actors and audience. Check the theatre's specific policy for details on taking photos in common areas. Reddit

The exterior of the theatre and the surrounding garden circle area, with its pond, can offer pleasant photo opportunities before or after a show. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sovremennik Theatre can be a great cultural outing for families, but it's crucial to select shows carefully. While some performances might be suitable for older children, others may contain mature themes or complex narratives. It's recommended to check the specific age recommendations for each play on the theatre's official website. The theatre's central location makes it accessible, but be prepared for potentially tight seating, which might be less comfortable for younger children. Reddit

Consider attending weekend matinee performances, which often have a more family-friendly atmosphere. Arriving early will help avoid any rush with children, especially around the cloakroom. While the theatre itself focuses on the performance, the surrounding garden circle area offers pleasant spaces for a pre- or post-show stroll, which can be a nice addition for families. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Sovremennik Theatre is a renowned institution, budget-conscious travelers can still enjoy its offerings. Look for weekday performances as they sometimes have lower ticket prices than weekend shows. Keep an eye out for any special promotions or discounts that might be available on the theatre's official website or through ticketing partners. Reddit

To save on food costs, consider dining at more affordable cafes or eateries in the surrounding areas rather than at upscale restaurants. Utilizing Moscow's efficient metro system is the most economical way to reach the theatre, avoiding expensive taxi fares. Booking tickets in advance can sometimes secure better prices and ensure you don't miss out on a show due to last-minute availability. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sovremennik Legacy

Founded in 1956 by a group of actors, the Sovremennik Theatre quickly became a symbol of the 'thaw' in Soviet culture, championing works by contemporary authors and playwrights. This spirit of innovation and artistic freedom continues to define its programming. The theatre is celebrated for its commitment to showcasing modern Russian and international drama, offering audiences a glimpse into current theatrical trends and thought-provoking narratives. Reddit

Its reputation is built on a foundation of strong artistic direction and a roster of talented actors. Performances often feature a blend of classic storytelling with a contemporary edge, making them accessible and engaging for a wide audience. The theatre's influence extends beyond Moscow, contributing significantly to the landscape of Russian theatre. Reddit

While the theatre is lauded for its artistic merit, it's worth noting that the physical space, particularly the auditorium, has received mixed reviews regarding comfort. However, the enduring appeal of Sovremennik lies in its dedication to presenting compelling, relevant, and high-quality theatrical productions that resonate with modern audiences. Reddit

Navigating the Auditorium Experience

Visitor feedback highlights that the auditorium seating at Sovremennik Theatre can be a significant factor in the overall experience. Descriptions point to uncomfortable, small chairs and narrow rows that can make for a cramped seating arrangement, especially for taller individuals or those seated next to larger neighbors. The limited space means knees can easily bump the seat in front, and the narrow aisles, bordered by flimsy railings, have even raised safety concerns for some patrons in case of an emergency. Reddit

Beyond the physical seating, audience etiquette is also a point of discussion. While the theatre is a respected institution, some reviews mention instances of cell phone usage during performances, which can be a distraction. This underscores the importance of individual audience members being mindful of their surroundings and respecting the performance and fellow theatergoers. Reddit

Given these points, it's advisable for visitors to manage expectations regarding seating comfort and to arrive early to familiarize themselves with the space and potentially secure a slightly more comfortable position if options allow. The theatre's commitment to artistic excellence remains, but awareness of the seating conditions can help ensure a more prepared and enjoyable visit. Reddit

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