From its grand opening in 1905 to the premiere of Creon in 2025

The history of theater life in Chernivtsi dates back to 1878, when the first small wooden theater was built in the city. But it soon became clear that the city needed a real cultural center worthy of its European fame.

Elizaveta Square was chosen for the construction of the new theater, and the project was entrusted to the well-known Viennese firm of Fellner and Helmer, whose architects had built dozens of luxurious opera houses in various countries. On August 1, 1904, the foundation was laid, and in less than a year and a half, hundreds of craftsmen and workers worked day and night to create a true architectural masterpiece.

The monumental theater, which cost the city 600,000 crowns, opened its doors to Chernivtsi residents on October 3, 1905. Its facade was decorated with sculptures on antique themes, and marble busts of prominent cultural figures by the Viennese sculptor Ernst Gedenbart appeared in the niches. The opening ceremony was rich in events: Ludwig van Beethoven's “Consecration of the House” was performed, followed by Norst's prologue “The Entry of the Muses” and von Schentan's comedy “Maria Theresa,” while the military band conducted by Kapellmeister Kosteletsky performed a festive overture.

From that day on, the theater became a real gem of Chernivtsi and an integral part of its cultural history.

The Czernowitzer Allgemeine Zeitung newspaper noted: “...The interior decoration of the theater is mainly in the Baroque style: warm tones, luxurious drywall covering, and rich drapery... Original decorations, antique figures, stucco decor, excellent acoustics in the hall...”

 And now, exactly 120 years later, on October 3, 2025, an event awaited by the entire cultural community will take place in Chernivtsi. Dmitry Bortnyansky's opera “Creon” will be performed on the stage of the Olga Kobylianska Music and Drama Theater—for the first time in the history of Ukraine! The premiere is scheduled for October 3 and 5 and will bring together over a hundred artists from Chernivtsi, Kyiv, and Lviv—singers, musicians, dancers, artists, and stage masters.