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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

Sovremennik Theatre Moscow
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Moscow theatre founded by actors, renowned for its bold contemporary plays and captivating performances.
"The theatre is outstanding and a great place to see what Russian theatrical tradition is about."

🎟️ 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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Star Power Performances
Main Stage
Witness renowned actors like Makovetski bring classic and modern stories to life with captivating performances.

Minimalist Stage Design
Appreciate the understated elegance of the theatre's minimalistic decorations and costumes that focus attention on the actors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Comfort and Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
How do you Moskva?
🎟️ 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.
Moskva worth to get in 2024?
How would you rate Moskva?
📱 Silence your phone
Be mindful of others; avoid using phones during the performance.
🚶 Arrive early
Allow time for cloakroom queues and finding your seat without rush.
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.
👟 Dress comfortably
While classy, comfort is key due to potentially tight seating.
📱 Silence your phone
Be mindful of others; avoid using phones during the performance.
🚶 Arrive early
Allow time for cloakroom queues and finding your seat without rush.
What Travellers Say
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.
"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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎭 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the auditorium. There may be a bar or kiosk selling refreshments during intermissions.
📸 📸 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.
The exterior of the theatre and the surrounding garden circle area, with its pond, can offer pleasant photo opportunities before or after a show.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sovremennik Legacy
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.
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.
Navigating the Auditorium Experience
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit