Riga's Opera House was one of the first buildings to get a full make-over following the ousting of the Soviets in 1991. Why? Because Latvians consider the opera an enormously important part of their cultural heritage, and they were determined that the new Opera House would spearhead their drive towards recreating their national identity. Indeed, led by its enigmatic director, Andrejs Zagars, the Latvian National Opera has succeeded in attracting highly favourable recognition worldwide - not least thanks to the company's youthful brashness and willingness to take risks. If however opera 'ain't your thing', you can also enjoy an excellent ballet in the opulent, gold-leafed tiers of this resplendent building.
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