Culture
Throughout the year, Vilnius bustles with the arts, ranging from small-scale street theatre right through to grand opera performances and classical music recitals. Many performances are only in Lithuanian as the country celebrates the return and dominance of the local language after decades of Soviet-era suppression. Check out Vilnius in Your Pocket (available free in hotels, can also be bought in newsagents and tourist offices) a bi-monthly guide to the city, for details of major events. The tourist office can also often help with information and even bookings. Main cultural venues include the Opera and Ballet Theatre, Vienuolio 1 (tel: (5) 262 0727; website: www.opera.lt), the National Philharmonic Hall, Ausros Vartu 4 (tel: (5) 266 5233; website: www.filharmonija.lt) and the National Drama Theater, Gedimino 4 (tel: (5) 262 9771; website: www.teatras.lt). Russian culture makes it own bid for attention at the Russian Drama Theatre, Basanaviciaus 13 (tel: (5) 262 7133). Big concerts often take place at the Siemens Arena, Ozo 14 (tel: 1653). The Vilnius Festival in June is fast becoming the highlight of the cultural calendar.
|
