The need to have a larger, more modern theater hall in Vilnius was felt even before the Second World War – the first insights into such a project were in 1940. submitted by the then Vilnius city architect Vytautas Lansbergis-Žemkalnis. Already after the war, in 1958, two projects were submitted for consideration in the competition: by Vilnius architects Antanas Spelskis and Nijolė Bučiūtė, and by Kaunas architects Algimantas Mikėnas and Valerijonas Šepkaus.
After the competition, it was decided to improve the proposal of the people of Vilnius, but its authors decided to continue working separately and submitted two individual projects. The vision of the future building created by the young architect N. Bučiūtė imbued with a modern spirit was chosen for further detailing.
in 1965 the foundation of the building began to be installed, and after almost a decade of construction in 1974. On November 6, the new Palace of the Opera and Ballet Theater opened its doors. Their significance for the development of national culture is difficult to overestimate: Lithuanian opera and ballet found their real home here, helping to grow and prosper to this day.
The first building designed for opera
“In every state, in every city, the building of the opera theater must be and is a decoration of the city, a significant highlight of it. After all, opera in all countries is a center of culture, its guide, leader and beacon. Therefore, the opera definitely needs to live in an impressive, artistic house and have all the necessary equipment inside that building. And our theater became the first in Lithuania, built specifically for opera,” recalls LNOBT General Director Laima Vilimienė.
The emergence of palaces that fascinate the public with their unique interiors, the constant evolution of their technical equipment and, of course, half a century of stage life full of artistic events are wrapped up in the most interesting stories that will be revealed at the events dedicated to the palace’s anniversary.
A new book for the theater’s birthday
During the festive week, a publication specially prepared for the 50th anniversary of the LNOBT Palace will be presented, which contains the most interesting information and photos testifying to the history of the building – from the project drawings to the present day. In addition, in the theater’s Red Foyer, the spectators of the performances will be greeted by a photo exhibition dedicated to the anniversary throughout the week.
November 6 at 5 p.m. the theater hosts an evening of talks and music “From the old Basanavičius to the new Monk”. It will be attended by LNOBT general director L. Vilimienė, doc. Dr. Lada Markejevaitė, dr. Vaidas Petrulis, opera soloist prof. Giedrė Kaukaitė, ballet principal and pedagogue Vytautas Kudžma. The conversation will be moderated by musicologist Eglė Ulienė. Musical numbers will be performed by opera soloists Monika Pleškytė, Skirmantė Vaičiūtė, Mindaugas Tomas Miškinis and concertmaster Lina Giedraitytė.
Before the jubilee event, there will be free excursions, for which Vilnius residents who hurry to register will have the opportunity to get to know the side of the theater that is not visible to the LNOBT audience. And for everyone else, even those who are far from Vilnius, eyewitness stories about the history of the LNOBT Palace are planned on the theater’s YouTube channel.
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**Interview with Laima Vilimienė, General Director of the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre (LNOBT)**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Laima! We’re excited about the upcoming concert celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Vilnius Karoliniškės Music School. How does this event fit into the broader context of celebrating the opera and ballet’s impact in Lithuania?
**Laima Vilimienė:** Thank you for having me! The concert is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our rich cultural heritage. The Vilnius Karoliniškės Music School has played a significant role in nurturing musical talent, which is vital for the future of the arts, particularly in an institution like ours that has been central to Lithuania’s cultural landscape for 50 years.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of history, can you tell us a bit about the origins of the LNOBT and its importance to Lithuanian culture?
**Laima Vilimienė:** Absolutely. The idea for a dedicated opera house dates back to before the Second World War, with the first proposals emerging in 1940. It took many years, and after several architectural competitions, the new building was inaugurated in 1974. It marked the beginning of a new chapter for Lithuanian opera and ballet, providing a home that has allowed these art forms to thrive.
**Interviewer:** And this vision included modern specifications that were quite innovative for its time, correct?
**Laima Vilimienė:** Yes, indeed! The design by Nijolė Bučiūtė was infused with a modern spirit that resonated with our cultural aspirations. It became the first theater in Lithuania built specifically for opera, which reflects not only architectural advancement but also our community’s dedication to culture. Over the years, it has become a symbol of artistic excellence and a centerpiece for our cultural life.
**Interviewer:** What can we expect during the anniversary celebrations for the palace, alongside the concert?
**Laima Vilimienė:** We have a whole week of festivities planned! A new publication chronicling the theater’s history from inception to present will be unveiled. Additionally, we will host a photo exhibition in the theater’s Red Foyer, showcasing the beautiful transformation of our space and its pivotal role in the arts. It’s a chance for the community to engage with our history and celebrate the stories that make our theater special.
**Interviewer:** That sounds amazing! As someone leading such an influential institution, what message do you want to convey to the community as you celebrate these milestones?
**Laima Vilimienė:** I want to emphasize the importance of culture as a unifying force. Our theater isn’t just a building; it is a living entity that thrives because of the talented artists and the audience who support them. As we celebrate these milestones, I hope everyone feels a sense of ownership and pride in our cultural achievements and continues to invest in the arts, which are essential for our identity and future as a nation.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Laima! We look forward to the concert and all the celebrations surrounding this significant anniversary.
**Laima Vilimienė:** Thank you! We can’t wait to celebrate with everyone!
