The theatre was established in 1921, making it one of the oldest cultural institutions in the country.
The current building is a historic monument protected by the state as part of the Architectural Heritage of Chișinău.
The theatre is named after Mihai Eminescu, the national poet of Romania and Moldova.
It was formerly known as the 'National Theatre of Bessarabia' during the interwar period.
The facility serves as the headquarters for the UNITEM (The Union of Theatre People of Moldova).
The theatre frequently collaborates with international troupes to bring European avant-garde productions to the local stage.
The Mihai Eminescu National Theatre is the oldest and most prominent Romanian-language theatre in Chișinău, Moldova. Housed in a building designed by architect Architect A.V. Șciusev, it has functioned as a central pillar of the city's cultural life since its establishment. The institution hosts a diverse repertoire, primarily consisting of classical and contemporary dramatic plays performed in Romanian. The building is characterized by its historical architectural significance within the city's main boulevard. It serves as a primary venue for major theatrical festivals and international performances throughout the year.
The main facade from the opposite side of Bulevardul Ștefan cel Mare și Sfînt provides the most complete view of the architecture.
Book tickets online through the official website well in advance for weekend performances, as they frequently sell out.
Check the programme for plays with English or Russian subtitles if you do not speak Romanian.
Arrive early to admire the lobby's historic architecture and art displays before the doors to the main hall open.
Do not wait until the day of the performance to purchase tickets, as box office availability is limited for popular shows.
The theatre typically goes on summer hiatus from July through August, with the new season resuming in September.
Formal or business-casual attire is expected for evening performances; silence is strictly required during the acts.
