We know Estonia
7.1.2023 | Culture

More than 130,000 people visited Vanemuine Theatre in 2022

Text Mark Taylor
Photo Heikki Leis

More than 130,000 people visited Vanemuine Theatre in 2022

 

In 2022, a total of 611 performances, concerts, special events and youth events were held at Vanemuine Theatre in Tartu, which were attended by a total of 134,960 people. This was 47 per cent more than in 2021.

The top five most visited productions in 2022 were the children’s play “Vennad Lõvisüdamed” (12,444 theatregoers), the musical “Nunnad hoos (12,341), the comedy “Tõrksa taltsutus” (7,681), the family saga “Niskamäe naised” (6,545) and the ballet “Pähklipureja ehk Imeline jõuluöö” (5149).

In 2022, six accessible performances were presented to the hearing and visually impaired, with people attending from all over Estonia. Vanemuine Theatre also opened its doors to Ukrainians who arrived in Estonia. In 2022, Ukrainians were invited to ballet and opera performances, a charity concert and an opera choir concert. The theatre will continue to offer cultural experiences to Ukrainians in 2023.

A number of the productions and artists were also recognised at the annual Estonian theatre awards in 2022. These include Külliki Saldre, who won the female lead award for her role as Loviisa in the play “Niskamäe naised” (Niskamäe women in English), and Risto Joost, the theatre’s musical director and chief conductor, who was recognised for the productions “Linda di Chamounix” and “Don Giovanni”.

In total 134,960 people attended Vanemuine Theatre in 2022, this was 60,000 more than in 2021. However, the 2021 season was still affected by some coronavirus restrictions, which affected performances and visitor numbers.

 

To learn more about this and similar topics
Ballet Concert Estonian Theatre Awards Tartu Theatre Tartu Vanemuine Vanemuine Theatre

4.5.2026 | Culture

Exciting events in Estonia this week

Exciting events in Estonia this week

23 April–10 June Iberofest 2026, various locations A celebration of the cultures of eight Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries on … Read more

3.5.2026 | Culture

Eye Candy for Craft Lovers

Eye Candy for Craft Lovers

Former top swimmer and model, now working as a swimming coach, Estonian Marianne Seiman has practised the unique craft … Read more

2.5.2026 | Culture

A Special Mother’s Day Brunch in PROTO Invention Factory

A Special Mother’s Day Brunch in PROTO Invention Factory

The Mother’s Day Brunch at the PROTO Invention Factory is a family-oriented event in Tallinn that combines dining, entertainment, … Read more

1.5.2026 | Culture

Europe Day in Estonia on 9 May

Europe Day in Estonia on 9 May

On the second Saturday of May, 9 May, Europe Day will once again be celebrated in Estonia and elsewhere … Read more

1.5.2026 | Culture

“Resonating Silence” A Capella Concert

“Resonating Silence” A Capella Concert

“Helisev vaikus”, which means “Resonating Silence”, is a one-evening musical event in Tallinn that offers an immersive experience centred … Read more

30.4.2026 | Culture

Nude Photo Exhibition “Näitus nr. 7”

Nude Photo Exhibition “Näitus nr. 7”

The photography exhibition “Näitus nr. 7” by Olavi Sõna is an art event in Tallinn that explores the human … Read more

30.4.2026 | Culture

Satu “Hildur” Rämö Visits Tallinn

Satu “Hildur” Rämö Visits Tallinn

At the end of May, from 27–31 May, the HeadRead literary festival held in Tallinn will host Satu Rämö, … Read more

29.4.2026 | Culture

Grillfest Event on 1 May in Nõmme

Grillfest Event on 1 May in Nõmme

The first day of May in Estonia doesn’t have to be a letdown for those who normally celebrate it … Read more