The building was constructed on the site of the former Nottbeck garden.
Architects Nikolai Vasiliev and Aleksei Bubyr won the design competition for the building in 1908.
The theatre interior features ornate plasterwork and original early 20th-century decorative elements.
During the Soviet era, the theatre was officially known as the V. Kingissepp Estonian State Academic Drama Theatre.
The building's high-pitched roof and granite-clad facade are quintessential examples of St. Petersburg-influenced Art Nouveau.
It is the only professional theatre in Estonia that has remained in continuous operation in the same building since 1920.
The Estonian Drama Theatre is the oldest professional theatrical institution in Estonia, housed in a prominent Art Nouveau building designed by architects Nikolai Vasiliev and Aleksei Bubyr. Opened in 1910, the venue was originally built as the German Theatre, serving the Baltic German community before becoming the home of the Estonian Drama Theatre in 1920. The structure is characterized by its steep, high roof and decorative facades inspired by Nordic Romanticism. It operates as the national repertory theater, maintaining a diverse program of Estonian and international plays. The main stage, the Grand Hall, retains historical architectural details, while smaller experimental stages are located within the complex. It functions as the primary platform for contemporary Estonian playwrights and classical works. The building remains a central hub for the Estonian performing arts scene in Tallinn's city center.
From across the street on Pärnu maantee to capture the full Art Nouveau silhouette of the facade.
Check the official website for productions with English surtitles, as most plays are performed in Estonian.
Arrive early to admire the lobby's historic architecture and interior art.
Use the theatre's cloakroom, as wearing outdoor coats in the auditorium is generally discouraged.
Do not show up without a pre-booked ticket, as popular productions frequently sell out in advance.
The theatre generally pauses large-scale main stage productions during the peak summer months of July and August.
Business casual to semi-formal attire is customary, especially for evening performances; avoid overly casual sportswear.
