The Russian State Pushkin Academy Drama Theater - the legendary Alexandrinsky Theater - is the oldest Russian national theater. It was founded by the Senate’s Decree, signed by Empress Elizabeth (daughter of Peter the Great) on August 30, 1756, the day of Saint Alexander Nevsky. This theater is the progenitor of all Russian theaters and the date of its foundation is the birthday of the Russian professional theater. Foundation of the theater gave a start to the Russian state policy in the field of theater arts.

Here, at the Alexandrinsky Theater, took place premieres of practically all plays of the Russian drama classics: from the "Woes of Wits" by A. Griboyedov to the plays by A. Ostrovsky and A. Chekhov.

During the season of 2005/2006, the Alexandrinsky Theater had undergone a general reconstruction, resulting in restoration of the historical image of the building’s interiors. At the same time, the Alexandrinsky will turn into one of the most technically perfect theater venues.

The grand opening of the reconstructed Alexandrinsky Theater took place on August 30, 2006, in the course of celebration of the 250th anniversary of the oldest state drama theater of Russia. The opening of the renovated Alexandrinsky stage became the culmination of the anniversary festivities and was held in the presence of the state leaders.