Much like the other former Soviet republics, Azerbaijan is proud of it's 
arts culture. In particular, expressions of dance and music are highly celebrated. So it's no wonder that there is a generous scattering of opera houses, philharmonics and drama theatres throughout the capital of Baku. Here locals will dress up (although they're usually "well-dressed" without special occasion). There's a fair share of elbow-rubbing, as Baku's wealthy come out to play.As one might expect, everything is done up in Soviet lavishness
in most of the venues. Gold leaf trimmings, red velvet curtains and massive chandeliers are the norm. While none of the theatres i visited in Baku were comparable to the most extravagant I have visited elsewhere, they are an excellent representative of what might be expected when visiting such buildings in the region.
in most of the venues. Gold leaf trimmings, red velvet curtains and massive chandeliers are the norm. While none of the theatres i visited in Baku were comparable to the most extravagant I have visited elsewhere, they are an excellent representative of what might be expected when visiting such buildings in the region. .
The Ballet & Opera theatre is tucked away just beyond the main centre on 
Targova Street. It plays host to shows most weekends during the theatre season. The performance i went to was done by a local troop. Far be it for me to criticize something i am completely incapable of doing, but let's 
just say the standard was short of being world class. However, for someone just looking for a night out, it was perfectly adequate. From time to time however, they do have visiting troops (Russian groups are frequent) which are generally of a higher caliber. Tickets range from 10-40 Manat ($12-$50). And trust me, that's a cheap night out in Baku. it a thumbs up if you're looking for something to do in Baku.
Targova Street. It plays host to shows most weekends during the theatre season. The performance i went to was done by a local troop. Far be it for me to criticize something i am completely incapable of doing, but let's 
just say the standard was short of being world class. However, for someone just looking for a night out, it was perfectly adequate. From time to time however, they do have visiting troops (Russian groups are frequent) which are generally of a higher caliber. Tickets range from 10-40 Manat ($12-$50). And trust me, that's a cheap night out in Baku. it a thumbs up if you're looking for something to do in Baku.
Right next to my house, in the heart of the city centre, is the iconic 
Philharmonic. Originally built as a club house for oil barons of the turn of the last century, it has been transformed into a concert hall. Unfortunately, the acoustics aren't the greatest as it was never really designed as a music hall. But tickets are usually super cheap, and almost all the seats are pretty much in the orchestra lap. You can't get much closer.
Philharmonic. Originally built as a club house for oil barons of the turn of the last century, it has been transformed into a concert hall. Unfortunately, the acoustics aren't the greatest as it was never really designed as a music hall. But tickets are usually super cheap, and almost all the seats are pretty much in the orchestra lap. You can't get much closer. .
In order to find out what's going on, I would use a decent (notice i didn't say great) on-line entertainment guide. Sometimes, there are even free shows. Then, once i figure out what i want to see, it's super easy to buy ticket from one of many Kaccas (ticket booths) located around the city centre. Or if you want to try luck, you can buy a ticket at the venue just before the show. All and all, going to the theatre in Baku isn't bad at all. It's usually cheap (for Baku anyway) and you get to feel culture. At least for 1 night ;)