Reconstruction of the Satyr Theater in Almaty for 22 billion tenge: what changes can we expect?

The reconstruction of the theater building will commence this month, as reported by the Almaty construction management.

"The reconstruction project has passed state expertise, and a contractor has been selected, with preparatory work already underway. In the coming days, a fence will be installed along the theater's territory," the statement reads.

The city construction management reminded that the theater building was constructed in the 1980s and has not undergone any major renovations since then.

The theater team has repeatedly drawn public attention to the deplorable condition of the building: water from the roof was flooding the stage, and the exterior cladding and electrical wiring have long since deteriorated. After an appeal to the city akim, an order was given to carry out the reconstruction of this significant cultural object for Almaty.

"The technical survey revealed significant wear and tear on the equipment, engineering networks, roofing, facade panels, and interior finishes. Currently, the building does not meet safety standards and has lost its aesthetic appeal," officials in the akimat report.

The reconstruction project includes strengthening the load-bearing structures, replacing the leaking roof and facade panels, and updating all engineering communications. The building will be fully equipped with an automatic fire extinguishing system.

It is also planned to completely upgrade the theater equipment, the stage, lighting, expand the aisles, and increase the distance between seats, as well as install additional spaces for individuals with limited mobility.

"Particular attention is being paid to the restoration and preservation of architectural elements, as the building is a monument of history and culture of local significance. For example, there are plans to recreate the historical appearance of the hall's flooring as laid out in the original design. The mosaic in the building's foyer will also be restored," the akimat added.

Additionally, a new three-story building with an area of 10,000 square meters will be constructed next to the theater. It will house a chamber hall for 200 seats with a stage, dressing rooms, workshop spaces for the theater, storage for decorations, offices for artistic and managerial staff, as well as a training stage and classrooms for a children's theater studio.

The two buildings will be connected by a gallery walkway. The surrounding area will be improved and landscaped.

"This is a large-scale project, and after the work is completed, the theater will become one of the city's landmarks, attracting residents in the eastern part of the city," the department concluded.

The duration of the work is 16 months. It is expected that all work will be completed by July 2026.

Remember, in January, it was announced that the N. Sats Theater in Almaty would be reconstructed. The akimat reported that the building, constructed in the 80s, has never undergone major repairs. 21.7 billion tenge has been allocated for the theater's reconstruction.