The Kharkov Opera House

Actually, that’s not quite accurate. It’s real name is the M. Lysenko Kharkov National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. I just wanted the whole title to fit on one line.

I have been wanting to take a picture of this theater for quite some time, but those banners across the top just have not been cooperating with me. The thing is, they’re always being changed out and most of the time there are empty spaces up there. When I got sick a couple weeks ago, Katie texted me while she was out to say that all they spaces were actually full. A few days later when we went by again, there were holes.

But today was the day. When I walked by and noticed that everything was just right – including the light – I spent a few minutes trying to catch spaces between the cars on this busy street.

This theater has been around since 1925, but this particular building wasn’t constructed until 1992. Unlike most theaters in Ukraine, this one was designed with heavy postmodern influences. In my opinion, this has worked against its charm and the building now feels more dated than something more conservative would have.

And that, my friends, is another glimpse at the city we live in!