Lesya Ukrainka National Academic Theater of Russian Drama, Kiev

The Lesya Ukrainka Theater is a drama theater located in the old part of Kiev, at the convergence of Pushkinskaya and Bogdana Khmelnitskogo Streets, just a few steps from Khreschatyk, Kiev’s main street. The history of this theater, initially named Ivan Franko, commenced in 1891, when the first drama show was staged here. In 1919, the theater was reorganized and changed its name, only to be closed down several months later. In 1920, it resumed activity and in 1926 was made the Russian State Drama Theater. In 1941, it was renamed again, this time to the Theater of Russian Drama, and continued as such until the beginning of World War II, shortly after which it was disbanded. The theater got back in business in 1944 and in 1966 received the status of an “academic theater”.

Since 1994, the theater has been conducted by Michael Reznikovich, a theatrical maître of honorable title, the People's Artist of Ukraine. In the course of years, many famous actors, both national and international, have performed here. Known for its traditionalist approach, the theater allows no much room for experimental productions. Visitors to the Lesya Ukrainka, apart from the masterly performed dramas, can enjoy a collection of artifacts revealing its glorious past.