Latvian National Theatre, Riga

The Latvian National Theatre is one of the oldest and most celebrated theatres in Latvia. It is housed in a 1902 building, designed by architect Augusts Reinbergs, which used to accommodate Riga's second Russian theatre, which was in operation until WWI. In 1918, Latvia proclaimed independence from the Russian Empire at the ceremony held inside the theatre's building, in which a year later the Latvian National Theatre was established. Initially, its troupe consisted mainly of actors from the Working Theatre, opened on February 23rd, 1919, and its repertoire included plays mostly by Jānis Akurāters, renowned Latvian writer.

Under the Soviets, the theatre was renamed The Drama Theatre and remained so until November 1988 when it regained the original name. Today, the Latvian National Theatre once again propagates Latvian art and culture. For almost a century it has done a great job upholding the art of drama in the country, and been known nationally for its efforts to bring on stage new talented actors and plays which would reflect the problems of contemporary Latvian society.

A visit to the Latvian National Theatre is like an excursion into the local history and culture.