Youth Theatre (TYUZ) in Almaty -
Theatre Tourism in Almaty -
The State Academic Russian Theatre for Children and Youth named after Natalia Sats is one of the oldest and most beloved cultural institutions in Almaty. This theatre is a true home of fairy tales, fantasy, and inspiration, where generations of Almaty residents first encountered the art of the stage. Located in the western part of the city, in the 12th microdistrict, far from the city center, it has long been an integral part of the cultural life of the southern capital.
Natalia Sats is the mother of children's theatres worldwide. She founded the world's first Moscow Children's Theatre (now the famous RAMT), and her Almaty theatre became the direct successor to those ideas. Its building, constructed in 1981, resembles a fairytale palace—with vibrant stained-glass windows, murals, and unique architecture that immediately immerses children in a world of magic.
The theater's repertoire is diverse, featuring classic fairy tales and children's plays, as well as contemporary productions for young people and adults. The theater's artists always strive not just to entertain, but to educate-through kindness, creativity, a sense of justice, and the beauty of art.
History
The theater's history began in 1946, shortly after the end of the Great Patriotic War, when the country needed joy and spiritual support. It was then, on the initiative of Natalia Ilyinichna Sats the legendary director and creator of the world's first children's theater that a children's theater opened in Alma-Ata. Its mission from the very beginning was to awaken in young audiences a love of theater, develop their imagination, and foster a positive outlook on the world.
The first performances were staged under difficult conditions – without sufficient funds, with minimal sets, but with great passion. This quickly brought success: the hall was always full, tickets were sold out in advance, and Natalia Sats's name became a symbol of true dedication to the arts.
In the following decades, the theater became one of the leading children's theaters in the Soviet Union. Its productions won awards and toured throughout Kazakhstan and beyond. In 1985, the theater was named after Natalia Sats in recognition of her contribution to the development of children's theater culture.
Architecture
The architecture of the Natalia Sats Theater in Almaty reflects the spirit of its time – a combination of Soviet classicism with soft Art Nouveau elements, creating a sense of solemnity and comfort. The building was constructed of light stone, decorated with stucco and decorative panels depicting theatrical masks and floral patterns.
The theater's façade faces a busy street, and its wide steps seem to invite audiences into a world of art. In the evening, the building is beautifully illuminated, and the auditorium windows glow with a warm golden light, creating a festive atmosphere.
The interior is also designed with loving attention to detail: stucco cornices, elegant chandeliers, wood paneling, and a red curtain lend the interior a classical elegance. The auditorium boasts excellent acoustics, making even the quietest lines of the actors clearly audible.
Behind the stage are spacious dressing rooms, costume rooms, and workshops where sets and props are created. Everything in this building is designed to immerse audiences in the theater's unique atmosphere—from the first steps into the foyer to the final applause.
How to get there and visit -
The Natalia Sats State Academic Russian Theater for Children and Youth is located in Almaty at 22 Shalyapina Street, corner of Pravda Street, Auezov District, Republic of Kazakhstan.
GPS coordinates: 43°13'17"N 76°52'04"E
You can get to the Natalia Sats Theater by buses #3, 4, 15, 31, 34, 37, 45, 59, 63, 66, 103, 104, 124, 128, 137, and trolleybuses #11 and 12. For convenience, it's best to take a taxi and book one through a special mobile app or drive your own car.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (subject to change due to holidays)
Contacts: +7 (727) 303‒02‒02
The Theatre Legend
There's a touching legend connected to the theatre's early years. It's said that Natalia Sats, while creating the stage, planted a small tree near the building a symbol of future growth and inspiration. She said, "Let this theatre grow like this tree and bear fruit—kind hearts and bright minds." The tree did indeed grow, and to this day, a huge oak tree stands on the theatre grounds, which the staff calls the "Sats Tree." It's believed that if you touch its trunk and make a wish before a premiere, the performance is guaranteed to be a success and your wish will come true.
The Natalia Sats Theatre in Almaty is much more than a stage. It's a portal to a world of childhood, fantasy, and high art. This is a place where a taste and love for theater are nurtured from a very early age. Visit here to see more than just a performance, but to become part of a living legend – a place where true magic has been created for children for over 75 years.
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