History of the National Opera and Ballet

The opera ensemble was established in 1947 (the first opera premiere, "Cavalleria rusticana", was performed on May 9, 1947), and the ballet ensemble in 1949 (the first ballet premiere, "Walpurgis Night", was staged on January 27, 1949). Initially, both ensembles operated within the Macedonian National Theatre (MNT).

In the beginning, available professional artists as well as members of amateur choral and orchestral groups were engaged. The true rise of the opera began with the arrival of the renowned conductor Lovro von Matačić, when the soloist cast, orchestra, and choir were fully completed. This marked the start of a diverse repertoire with a focus on the core classical canon, leading to numerous guest performances across Yugoslavia and internationally. Following immense public interest, the festival "May Opera Evenings".

"The rise of the opera began with conductor Lovro von Matačić, when the soloists, orchestra, and choir were fully unified, building a signature artistic quality."

Organizational Growth & Theatre Venues

Initially, the ensembles operated within MNT in the highly functional theatre building constructed in 1927. MNT functioned there until the devastating 1963 Skopje earthquake, when the building was severely damaged and later demolished. Subsequently, the theatre operated in temporary venues until the completion of its modern home in the 1980s. That landmark venue is used by the NOB today.

This organizational structure was reorganized in 2004, when MNT retained the drama ensemble, while the opera and ballet separated into an independent institution named "Macedonian Opera and Ballet (MOB)". In 2018, the official name was updated to"National Opera and Ballet" (NOB).