Though based on French and Italian traditions, Russian ballet, nevertheless, is unique and highly appreciated all over the world. St. Petersburg is the center of the Russian classical school of dancing.

The tour acquaints you with the great names of Russian ballet – Agrippina Vaganova, Anna Pavlova, Vatslav Nizhinsky, George Balanchin, Tamara Karsavina, Matilda Kshessinskaya, Rudolf Nureev, Michael Baryshnikov, Natalia Makarova, Galina Ulanova, Konstantin Sergeev and others.

The tour includes:

Backstage tour to one of two most famous St. Petersburg theatres: Mariinsky (former Kirov) Opera and Ballet House or Mikhailovsky Theatre (depending on your choice as well as theater schedule);
Visit to one of famous St. Petersburg schools of classical ballet dance to see ballet classes of students and to learn about the entire system of teaching classical dance.

The tour lasts for 3.5 - 4 hours. Possibility of the tour on a particular day as well as all the details should be discussed in advance.

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From our clients' reviews:

Russian ballet theatre tour in St Petersburg Russia

...We chose to visit the ballet in St Petersburg as part of a river cruise and were so pleased we did. What an amazing experience! After being a dance teacher for 20 years I finally got to attend a Russian Ballet. The theatre was lovely and intimate, the costumes beautiful and the dancing divine. Thanks to Best Guides for this unusual tour! (Miriam, Montreal, Canada)

Mariinsky theatre tour & Mikhailovsky theatre tour in St Petersburg russia

...It’s world famous theatres with word-top performances so you cannot miss a show there while you’re in the city. I was speechless the moment I entered the Mariinsky theatre and started clicking pics. The seats, the balcony walls, the curtains everything is tastefully painted to give a look of a one big Canvas, on which the artist has spilled the colours of love and passion. (Andy Watt, London, United Kingdom)

Mariinsky and Mikhailovsky ballet theatres backstage tours in St Petersburg Russia

...For anyone interested in ballet, and the Russian classical ballet, in particular, this theater is a must-see sight. World-famous ballet performances premiered on its stage and many of its students went on to become ballet legends in many countries of the world! Thanks to our guide, we learned a lot about ballet art in Russia and about the famous Russian ballet dancers. (Rachael C, United States)

St Petersburg ballet theatres backstage tour

...Backstage tour is very special. It is designed to make you feel like you become part of the glamourous theatrical elite - the one that makes every show so outstandingly rememberable. I went there twice with my Mum - we will be coming back again! We are grateful to Best Guides for this wonderful and informative tour! (McMaud, Saint Paul, Minnesota)