The National Theatre of Opera, Ballet and Folk Ensemble is Albania’s national institution for opera, ballet, symphonic music and traditional performance. It is based at the Palace of Culture on Skanderbeg Square in Tirana.
History
Its origins lie in the Albanian Philharmonic, founded in 1950. The theatre recognises November 27, 1953, the date of its performance of Alexander Dargomyzhsky’s “Rusalka”, as its founding date. It became a separate institution in 1956. The National Folk Song and Dance Ensemble was established in 1957 and joined the theatre. The institution moved to the Palace of Culture in 1966.
Artistic work
The theatre brings together an orchestra, choir, opera soloists, ballet company and folk ensemble. Its repertoire encompasses Albanian and international works. Historic productions include Kristo Kono’s “Agimi”, Prenkë Jakova’s “Mrika” and Tish Daija’s ballet “Halili dhe Hajria”, choreographed by Panajot Kanaçi.
Its mission includes preserving and developing the repertoire, supporting new work and fostering public engagement with the performing arts.
