Points of Russia: Exploring the Land of the Tsars

Experiencing the Russian Theatre and Ballet Russia is known for its tradition in the performing arts, with theater and ballet playing a very prominent role. Russian theaters have a long and storied history, having been around since the 18th century and developing a distinct style of performance and technique, now known as the "Russian classical style." Ballet developed in the 19th century, with Russian choreographers establishing many of the most fundamental steps and variations in their art form. Today, Russian theater and ballet remain prominent all over the world, with ballets like Swan Lake and Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker still playing to sold-out audiences. If you are looking to explore the art of Russian performing arts, here is what you need to experience. Theaters When it comes to Russian theater, the Bolshoi Theater and the Maly Theater are two of the most famous names. The Bolshoi Theater is the country's most iconic theater, and has been around since 1776, m...

Architectural Wonders of Russia Russia is a country of contrasting beauty; blending old world charm and Mother nature's splendors with sweeping modern skylines and classical architectural landmarks. Russia is home to some of the world's most awe-inspiring monuments that have captivated people around the world. From the grand scale while immersing in the beauty of St. Basil Cathedral to wandering the city streets of Moscow in search of some of the most iconic buildings in the world, exploring Russia's architectural wonders is truly a magical experience. The Winter Palace The official residence of Russia's Tsars (rulers) starting in 1762, the Winter Palace stands proudly across from St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg. Built by Fabio Rastrelli in a Baroque design, the palace is not only a prime example of Russian artistry, but also a staggering 673,000 square meters of imperial splendor. Much of the palace has been open to the public since 1917w and visitors can...