Russian Theatre

The Mikhail Chekhov Russian Theatre

A cultural stop on the Riga audio-guided tour, the Mikhail Chekhov Russian Theatre, founded in 1883, is the oldest professional Russian-language theatre outside Russia and one of the very first professional theatres in Latvia.

The legacy of Mikhail Chekhov

Inspired by Florentine palaces, the theatre has borne since 2006 the name of Mikhail Chekhov, actor and director, nephew of the famous writer Anton Chekhov, who stayed in Riga between 1932 and 1934, a period he described as his lucky period. There he laid the foundations of a modern way of teaching acting, lastingly influencing the local scene.

What to see

Chekhov then continued his career in Europe and then in Hollywood, where he later trained stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Clint Eastwood. Near the theatre, in front of the Colonel tavern, look up at the sculpture that adorns the corner of the building. Admire the Italian Renaissance-inspired facade of this great venue of the Riga stage.

Practical information

The Mikhail Chekhov Russian Theatre is in Riga's old town. Programming and performance times should be checked depending on the season with the institution.

Why is the theatre named after Mikhail Chekhov ?

In tribute to this actor and director, nephew of Anton Chekhov, who stayed in Riga in the 1930s.

What is special about this theatre ?

It is the oldest professional Russian-language theatre outside Russia.