Latvian National Theatre
Latvia's national drama theatre of 1902, where independence was proclaimed in November 1918.
The theatre building was raised between 1899 and 1902 to designs by the Latvian architect Augusts Reinbergs, in an eclectic manner with neo-baroque detail, a columned portico and carved atlantes flanking the entrance. It opened as the Second Riga City Theatre and served German and Russian companies before a Latvian troupe took it over. The Latvian National Theatre was founded in 1919 with Rainis among its early directors, and the building has remained its home ever since.
On 18 November 1918 the People's Council of Latvia proclaimed the independent Republic of Latvia in the theatre's auditorium, and the room is still used for the annual state commemoration. The company performs in Latvian and works across four spaces: the Large Hall, the New Hall, the Actors' Hall and the White Hall. Repertoire ranges from Latvian classics by Blaumanis, Rainis and Anšlavs Eglītis to world drama and newly commissioned plays, with several premieres each season.
Highlights
- Latvian independence proclaimed in the auditorium on 18 November 1918
- Eclectic 1902 building with neo-baroque detail and carved atlantes
- Four performance spaces, from the Large Hall to the intimate White Hall
- Repertoire of Latvian classics alongside newly commissioned drama
