The Academic Music and Drama Theatre named after M. L. Kropyvnytskyi

Kropyvnytskyi Music and Drama Theatre: the First Professional Theatre in Ukraine

The Academic Music and Drama Theatre named after M. L. Kropyvnytskyi went down in the history of Ukrainian culture as the «Theatre of Coryphaei». Its stage welcomed such prominent artists as Maria Zankovetska, Mykola Sadovskyi, Mykhailo Starytskyi and Panas Saksahanskyi. The troupe’s fame quickly spread throughout Europe, bringing Ukrainian art to a high level.

History of the Theatre

The history of the theatre is inseparably connected with the origins of the Ukrainian professional stage. On October 27, 1882, under the direction of Marko Kropyvnytskyi, the first professional national realist theatre was founded. This outstanding artist combined the talents of an actor, innovative director, playwright, poet and composer, teacher and theatre figure, effectively becoming one of the creators of the new Ukrainian stage. The professional troupe was established despite the strict restrictions imposed by the tsarist authorities. The premiere of «Natalka Poltavka» by Ivan Kotliarevskyi demonstrated the maturity and distinctiveness of Ukrainian theatre.

In September 1938, a Ukrainian music and drama theatre with regional status was established, and two years later the troupe was named after Marko Kropyvnytskyi. In 1944, the institution officially became the Kirovohrad Regional State Ukrainian Music and Drama Theatre named after M. L. Kropyvnytskyi. The troupe opened its first season in Kirovohrad, which had just been liberated at the time, on July 2, 1944, with a production of «Marusia Bohuslavka» based on the play by Mykhailo Starytskyi.

In 1982, the centenary of the Ukrainian professional theatre founded by Marko Kropyvnytskyi was commemorated at the international level by UNESCO as an important date in the history of Ukrainian culture.

The 2000s to the Present

In 2000, the theatre established the «Golden Fund of the M. L. Kropyvnytskyi Theatre». Special displays were dedicated to the founders, associates and successors who, at different times, made a significant contribution to the development of the troupe and Ukrainian theatre. Since independence, the theatre has participated in almost thirty theatre festivals, seven of which had international status. In February 2006, the institution was granted academic status.

The theatre continues to develop actively, combining a respectful attitude toward Ukrainian theatrical heritage with modern European approaches to stage art. Even under martial law, the troupe continues its creative work. Performances are held in compliance with safety requirements, while the event calendar is regularly updated with new productions. These include experimental projects and other contemporary stage works that respond to the realities of the present day.

Where Is the Kropyvnytskyi Theatre Located?

The theatre is located in the very centre of Kropyvnytskyi at 4 Teatralna Street. It is easy to find, as the majestic building stands near Kovalivskyi Park and is a true highlight of the pedestrian area.

Architectural and Technical Features and Capacity

The modern theatre building is a striking combination of neoclassical architecture with individual Baroque motifs. It acquired its present appearance after a major reconstruction in 2011–2012. The restoration was carried out for the 130th anniversary of the founding of the first Ukrainian professional theatre, and the renovated building was officially reopened on October 17, 2012. The reconstruction affected not only the theatre itself – the square in front of the building was also improved.

Changes were also made to the exteriors of the main and side facades, while the historic appearance of the building and its architectural concept were preserved. The stage equipment also underwent a technical upgrade. Lighting systems, acoustics, film technologies and stage television communications were modernized. After the reconstruction, the auditorium comfortably accommodates 450 visitors. Its layout follows a classical European scheme and includes the stalls, baignoire, dress circle and balconies.

The Company

Today, the theatre brings together a large creative team comprising drama actors, vocalists, ballet dancers and a professional orchestra. This combination of dramatic and musical disciplines allows the troupe to work in a variety of genres – from intimate and profound dramas to large-scale musicals and musical performances.

The theatre company is constantly being renewed, bringing in young directors and performers. This allows the traditional stage school to be combined with a contemporary approach to theatre and current European trends. The troupe actively tours Ukraine, presenting its productions on leading stages and performing to full houses.

The Theatre’s Repertoire

One of the theatre’s main characteristics remains its constant creative exploration. At different times, its stage has brought to life works by Molière, William Shakespeare, Beaumarchais, Goldoni, Lope de Vega, Shaw and many other representatives of world drama. At the same time, the theatre actively turns to Ukrainian classics, seeking new stage interpretations of familiar stories.

Today’s repertoire covers a variety of moods and genres. On stage, audiences can see «The Forest Song» and «Chasing Two Hares», turn to a romantic story in «Butterflies Are Free» or «Love by Correspondence», as well as immerse themselves in the philosophical themes of «Our Town» and encounter the worlds of the characters in other stories.

What Events Take Place at the M. L. Kropyvnytskyi Music and Drama Theatre

The theatre’s event calendar features events in the following genres and formats:

• music and drama performances;
• classical dramas and tragedies;
• musical performances and shows;
• comedies and children’s performances;
• instrumental music evenings;
• concerts by popular music stars and other events.

How to Get Tickets to Performances and Concerts at the Kropyvnytskyi Music and Drama Theatre

Thanks to the convenient and reliable online service Concert.ua, there is no need to waste time waiting in line at ticket offices – you can order tickets from home. Simply choose an event from the current list, click on the seats you would like to reserve and make the payment. It is simple and fast. And the tickets are already waiting in your email attachment – just check your inbox.