My name is Adrianna Brady and I am a student studying the Russian language through American Councils Study and Research Abroad’s Advanced Russian Language and Area Studies Program (RLASP) in Yerevan, Armenia. One of the major factors that shaped my decision to study in Yerevan was the city’s rich musical history, especially in regards to classical music, opera, and ballet. While many believe that classical music is inaccessible to the masses, there are countless opportunities to explore the world of classical music and dance in Yerevan.
A group of RLASP students stand in front of the Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre.
The Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre is located in the center of Yerevan, making performances easily accessible by bus, by taxi, or on foot. The architecture of the theatre is not only aesthetically pleasing, but reflects the ingenuity of Armenian architecture, the country’s rich cultural history, and its dedication to supporting the arts.
One of the first performances I saw at The Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre was Georges Bizet’s Carmen. The Opera and Ballet Theatre provides bilingual programs in English and Armenian so that multilingual audiences can fully enjoy the experience by reading through the synopsis, cast list, and other programming notes. One of the unique features of the Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre’s program is that it reflects the changing cast of each performance.
The bilingual program for Carmen.
While watching Carmen, I was mesmerized by the beautiful interior of the Opera House. The rich crown molding, mahogany seats, and lustrous chandeliers provide audiences with a luxury experience. Despite its stately appearance, tickets for opera and ballet performances are affordable, with prices starting at 6,000 AMD ($15 USD), thus making opera and ballet accessible and open to a wider range of people, especially students.
The interior of the Opera House.
The beauty of the hall reflects Armenian’s dedication to the preservation of the arts and it enriches the audience’s experience. The combination of visual aesthetics and the lush auditory sensations inspire audiences. While seeing an opera like Carmen or a long symphonic work can seem overwhelming, performances typically have an intermission, allowing audiences to get up, walk around, enjoy the beautiful architecture, and purchase refreshments.
RLASP Participant Adrianna Brady stands in the reception hall during the intermission of Carmen.
In addition to the sublime voices of opera singers and heavenly instrumentals of the orchestra, The Armenian National Opera and Ballet Theatre’s production of Carmen’s aesthetics and set was totally unique, combining elements of classical romanticism of Bizet’s time with elements of modernism and industrialism, giving a unique anachronistic aesthetic.
I look forward to seeing more productions of operas and ballets during my stay here in Yerevan! I especially look forward to seeing works composed and choreographed by Armenian composers and choreographers, as their works are not commonly performed in the United States.
Opportunity Scholarship Recipient
Advanced Russian Language and Area Studies Program (RLASP)
Yerevan State University (YSU)
Yerevan, Armenia, Summer 2025