Astrakhan Drama Theater - one of the oldest theaters in Russia. In 2010, this temple of art 200 years old. Organized theater a retired lieutenant A.Gruzinov. The first performance took place on 12 December 1810 in a large barn owned merchant Tokarev. One year later, the theater occupied a prominent place in the cultural and social life of Astrakhan. Relentless time has resulted in the old premises in dilapidated state, and the question of building a new theater building capital.

The organizer and patron of the construction became an honorary citizen of the city of NI Plotnikov. Local architect Folrad created the project of the new building, which during construction repeatedly amended with the latest trends of European theater architecture. The construction lasted 14 years - from 1873 to 1887. Stone building of the theater - the pride of many generations of citizens - element survived revolutions, devastating war, the difficult years of reconstruction of the country, and only in 1987 he needed a major overhaul. The restoration lasted until 1994.

Despite seven years of wandering in strange scaffolding, the theater has managed not only to preserve its basic structure, but also significantly upgrade the repertoire. Yet since 1857, the main focus of the theater was entreprise. In the oldest Russian theater stage is a famous troupe of actors and outstanding. For example, in 1864 in Astrakhan theater actor playing world-renowned Iroh Aldridge. In different years on the stage shone Fyodor Chaliapin, Sobinov, Yermolov, Komissarzhevskaya, Tselikovskaya, Alyanova. In 1986, the activities of the Astrakhan State Drama Theater was awarded the Order "Badge of Honor".