THÉÂTRE DRAMATIQUE RUSSE

The building housing the Gorky Theatre was Astana's first performance hall. Inaugurated in 1899, this handsome pastel building was not dedicated to the arts until 1939. Until then, local and guest troupes performed in various improvised halls around town. In 1959, it was renamed the Gorky Theatre. Since independence, it has hosted plays featuring the history, culture and great men of Kazakhstan. If you're lucky enough to attend a performance, take the opportunity to admire the building's architecture.