What's the sound quality like?

The sound quality is top-notch, with deep bass and crystal-clear highs.

Yeah, it's super easy to use – just plug it in and you're good to go.

How long does the battery last?

The battery life is pretty good, but it could be better – I'd say it lasts around 8-10 hours on a single charge.

No, it's not waterproof – so be careful around water.

Yeah, you can adjust the EQ to get the perfect sound for your needs.

Is it compatible with my device?

Yeah, it's compatible with most devices – just check the specs to make sure.

Can I use it for gaming?

Yeah, it's perfect for gaming – the sound quality is top-notch and it's super easy to use.

Is it worth the price?

Yeah, it's worth the price – the sound quality is top-notch and it's super durable.

I'm Head Over Heels for Helikon - Great Sound, Killer Looks, and Some Minor Quibbles

I have to say, I'm absolutely smitten with the Helikon Opera.

My first time visiting this theatre and I was hooked. And why not? Everything about it is just top-notch: the stylish interior, the fascinating blend of old and new, the interesting productions, and the powerful, crystal-clear voices!

I was lucky enough to catch a performance of 'The Shoes They Danced to Death'.

Helikon Opera reviewA brief introduction to the theatre.

The Moscow Helikon Opera was founded on April 10, 1990. Its founder was Dmitry Aleksandrovich Bertman. Another key figure in the theatre's creation was Kirill Tikhonov – a renowned conductor and people's artist of the USSR, who went on to become the theatre's chief conductor and musical director.

The team behind the theatre's productions includes:

people's artist of the USSR Vladimir Fedoseev;people's artist of Russia Vladimir Ponykin;main designers – esteemed artists of Russia Igor Nezhny and Tatyana Tulubieva;lighting designer – esteemed cultural worker of Russia Damiir Ismagilov;choreographer – a laureate of international competitions Edvard Smirnov;chief choral director – Evgeny Ilyin.The Helikon Opera troupe exceeds 500 people. Over the course of a season, the theatre puts on over 300 performances. Its repertoire boasts more than 75 productions.

As you can see, the theatre boasts an impressive roster of talent!

How to get to the Helikon Opera.

It's right in the heart of Moscow, and if you're feeling adventurous, you can even pop into my beloved Moscow Conservatory next door.

The Helikon Opera is located at: Moscow, Bolshaya Nikitskaya Street, 19/16, building 1, just a stone's throw from Arbatskaya Metro Station (Filippovsky Line).

You can also get there from Tverskaya – it's just a 15-minute walk. And let's be honest, everything in the city centre is pretty close, right?)

Let's get started, shall we?

I usually begin my theatre reviews with a bit of history about the building – it's always fascinating, and there's always something to show and tell. And at the Helikon Opera, it's especially worth it.

The interior is so stunning that as soon as a historic tour is announced, all the spots are snapped up instantly.

A brief history of the Helikon Opera building.

The history of the Shakhovsky-Glebov-Streshnev estate on Bolshaya Nikitskaya Street dates back to the time of General-Ensign F.I. Glebov. In the 19th century, a theatre was already located here, where French and Italian actors performed, as well as the Vienna Opera Troupe. In the early 20th century, a chamber stage was opened here.

Construction work on the plot allocated to the theatre.

In the 2000s, the Moscow government decided to hand over the monument of architecture to the Helikon Opera. The project was developed in 2006 by the 'Mosproject-4' architectural group under the guidance of Andrey Bokov. From 2007, work began on Bolshaya Nikitskaya, 19/16, building 1 and building 2. The destruction of historic buildings in the name of constructing a new building sparked fierce criticism from the public movement 'Architectural Watch'.

During the construction period, the Helikon Opera staged performances at the theatre hall on Novy Arbat, 11, which previously housed the 'Et Cetera' theatre. In 2015, the theatre opened its doors on Bolshaya Nikitskaya, 19/16.

But yeah, I have to admit, I was totally curious about why the Helikon-Opera is called that, and what a Helikon is, anyway? My philological instincts told me it had something to do with Ancient Greece, but I wasn't entirely sure.

Versions.

The name of the mountain in Ancient Greece. Helikon is a hill in the Parnassus mountain range, tied to Greek mythology. It's the 'residence' of Apollo, the god of arts, and his accompanying Muses, who would gather there to jam.The name of a wind instrument. A Helikon is a massive, curved brass instrument. It was previously only used in military bands.In choosing the name, Burtman combined these ideas, creating a metaphor: the Helikon is the unattainable pinnacle of opera mastery, showcased to the audience from the 'Helikon-Opera' stage.

Now, let's dive in! Are you ready for a dose of beauty?

You can easily spot the building by this sign.

Helikon-Opera reviewUnfortunately, I forgot to take a photo of the building itself, but it's really stunning. I found this picture in the buffet, and the building's on the left, looking yellow.Helikon-Opera reviewThis is what the ticket area looks like.

It's really beautiful, elegant, and simple, yet tasteful.

Helikon-Opera reviewI love the floor, furniture, and layout.Helikon-Opera reviewThe stairs are really pretty.Helikon-Opera reviewShall we take a look at the wardrobe?We head down this beautiful staircase. The black color looks really unique and original.

Helikon-Opera reviewThe black chandelier fits in perfectly. My photos can't capture the full beauty and atmosphere of this place.Helikon-Opera reviewOn the left, there's a mosaic panel, and if you look closely, you can see your own features in it.

Heliicon Opera Review I've got to say, the wardrobe area is super stylish. And when you check out the gallery, there are plenty of plush couches, stools, and benches to lounge on while you get changed. Heliicon Opera Review As you make your way to the coat racks, you'll get to appreciate some amazing artwork. Heliicon Opera Review There's even a model of the building itself.

Heliicon Opera Review You can take a closer look at the souvenir shop display case.

Heliicon Opera Review The wardrobe area itself is actually pretty spacious – I didn't feel cramped, but the lines can get pretty long. The staff (young guys and guys) are working quickly, though there are just too few ticket booths)

Heliicon Opera Review But, of course, it's all very stylish.

Heliicon Opera Review The floor is completely non-slip.

Heliicon Opera Review There are tons of mirrors and lighting fixtures, giving you a sense of what to expect from the rest of the place.

Heliicon Opera Review This, I think, is the main entrance and exit – I ended up going through a side entrance, though. Heliicon Opera Review Heliicon Opera Review Since I visited in late January, the Christmas tree was still up, decorated in style. On top of it was a red horse, a pretty original symbol for 2026.

Next to the tree, there's a little window in the floor with a transparent cover. For some reason, it made me think of Atlantis (no water, though – I'm not sure why) and Ancient Greece, which is a bit more understandable)

There's plenty to look at, to say the least.

Gelikon-opera reviewThere's a buffet nearby, and not far away is a shop selling souvenirs. I have to say, I was impressed with some of the things I saw.

Gelikon-opera reviewHere's another buffet, which I snapped a photo of after the performance, so it's empty.

Gelikon-opera reviewNext to it, they've installed a bust of the famous opera singer Dmitry Hvorostovsky.

Gelikon-opera reviewShall we move on to the other halls?

Let's start with the Historical Foyer, I suppose.

It's all soft, warm tones in here, with a carpeted floor that's both cozy and grand at the same time.

Gelikon-opera reviewGetting a great photo during the interval is impossible, there are just too many people. You'd either have to hang around (and risk missing the show) or get here a bit earlier, at least half an hour before the performance.

And if you turn your head, you can see the stunning ceiling and the arches on either side, adorned with intricate carvings.

Gelikon-opera review. That ceiling is just incredible - look at the fine details!Let's head up to the top floor via that wide staircase... Along the way, you can admire the decorations.

I've only been to Gelikon-opera once, so far, but I'm guessing those decorations are seasonal, maybe just for New Year's Eve. Not sure, though)

Gelikon-opera reviewThe Historical Foyer isn't over yet! - we've got a spacious area with a red carpet and beautiful chandeliers.

Gelikon-opera reviewLepnina, columns... Gelikon-opera reviewA few New Year's reminders, and an interesting photo)

Gelikon-opera reviewThe walls are adorned with cityscapes and sketches.

Heliicon Opera reviewI love how the doors to other rooms are placed on either side.

Love that)

Heliicon Opera reviewNaturally, I found a lot of portraits in massive frames... Heliicon Opera reviewHere, to be honest, they've overdone it a bit, but it was still worth checking out.From my conversation with the intelligent grandmothers, I learned that they occasionally change the exhibition, showcasing new costumes.

Heliicon Opera review Heliicon Opera reviewI was really taken by this composition called 'Wave'. It's just stunning, pure and simple! Heliicon Opera reviewIsn't that amazing? Heliicon Opera reviewThe mirror is just incredible, I couldn't tear my eyes away. Heliicon Opera reviewThis hall in a misty-blue hue was the first one that caught my eye, and I really liked it.

Heliicon Opera reviewAnd then there are the chairs!

Heliicon Opera reviewThe auditorium in Heliicon Opera.

The red-brick cladding is ancient, possibly from the 18th century - I didn't check. In short, the architects and designers have done an amazing job preserving the historic facade of an old mansion. They've added a seating area with chairs, an orchestra pit, and a stage.

Heliicon-opera review I was blown away by the sheer power of this space! Heliicon-opera review And that's the former porch of a historic estate. Now it's a VIP lounge, which is a pretty cool solution. Heliicon-opera review The hall is unusual because it's all parterre, no balconies or tiers. What about the prices?

I might be wrong, but I was only here once, and the prices are roughly around 15,000 rubles.

It's about the same as the Bolshoi Theatre, depending on the performance and cast, of course.

I bought a ticket for 6,000 rubles, parterre, 7th row, central aisle. The view of the stage is amazing, I could see every corner.

Heliicon-opera review I wouldn't recommend sitting too close to the porch, as it might obstruct your view.

You can actually sit in the first row, which is a great view, but also the most expensive. The stage is right in front of you, and it's really immersive. I sat in the first row during intermission, and it was amazing.

But even from the 7th row, it's perfectly fine. The person in front of me was quite tall, but he didn't block my view at all.

Heliicon-opera review What about the seats?

The chairs are comfortable, but I wish there was a bit more legroom, especially for people with longer legs. I'm only 164 cm tall, so I had to get a bit creative and stretch out diagonally to fit my knees in the aisle. Not everyone can do that, though.

My impressions of "The Little Shoes" opera at Heliicon-opera.

At first, I was taken aback by the opening scene, which is quite erotic. I didn't expect that, even though it's in the original Gogol story. I was a bit embarrassed for the young mom with kids sitting next to me, who covered their eyes with her hands. Some people even left the auditorium, it was that intense. Not for the faint of heart.

But after that, it was all good.

<\/a> Геликон-опера отзыв\ What struck me about the opera was the beautiful, deep, powerful, and clear voices. I thoroughly enjoyed how Chert and Vakula sang, and the female parts were great too, but the male voices just blew me away. As someone who's not a big fan of opera - I often get bored or overwhelmed - my love is ballet. So, I didn't expect to be blown away, but "Chervenik" at the Helikon Opera really impressed me. The singing was just fantastic!\

I don't always follow the opera (in any opera), but in the Helikon, there are subtitles at the bottom (in Russian and English), which is super convenient for reading when needed. They don't distract from the performance at all, and the font is nice too.\

The decorations and costumes were beautiful, vibrant, and well-thought-out, with lots of interesting details. It was like a winter wonderland - Dikanka, with smoke billowing from the chimneys, a starry night sky... The animation added a nice touch, with the smoke and stars moving and twinkling.\

<\/a> Геликон-опера отзыв\ The white structure looked like a snow-covered hill. <\/a> Геликон-опера отзыв\ The music by Tchaikovsky was just wonderful, as always.\

The only criticism I have is about the acoustics. The singers sing beautifully, no question, the orchestra plays superbly too, but sometimes the orchestra just overpowers the singer's voice, and it's like they're not even singing. It's really strange, as I've never experienced this in any other theater.\

Oh, and I remember another thing - the dance at the ball with the empress was really strange. Objectively, it was a bit out of place, and even relatively speaking, it didn't quite fit with the rest of the opera. It was more like contemporary dance, which just didn't feel right. I mean, if they wanted something modern, a quickstep would have been better... But what I saw was a bit of a mismatch.\

I loved the text of the opera: there were so many dialects, colloquialisms, and interesting constructions. As a philologist, I appreciate that, and the folklore too - it's really great.\

The choir absolutely blew me away in the second act, when they came out into the hall and interacted with the audience. I'm usually not a fan of that sort of thing, but this was fantastic. The singing was just stunning, the costumes were great, and it was really joyful!\

I'm a bigger fan of ballet, and I'm still getting into opera, so some things I liked, some things I didn't, but "Chervenik" really impressed me.\

I'll write a separate review for the opera "Chervenik" with a more detailed analysis.\

And one more thing...\

I really liked that they post the schedule so far in advance. For example, right now it's January, and they already have the schedule up until July. That's really cool.\

The cast lists are also available well in advance.\

And, of course, the rich repertoire is always a plus - there's always something to choose from.\

I'm really interested in the other halls, like the Belokolonnaia Hall of Princess Shakhovskaya - I haven't been able to visit it yet.\

That's it.\

I have to say, Helikon has really won me over - I'm starting to love opera thanks to them! I'm beginning to appreciate it more and more.

Helikon is definitely a theatre I'd love to go back to.

Helikon-opera reviewAfter reading reviews from regulars at this theatre, I noticed Helikon has a lot of productions that are modern interpretations (some people call them contentious). I'm not always a fan of that - I'm a classic opera kind of person, so I'll add to this review as I see other shows.

Before this, I'd been to some operas at the Bolshoi, New Opera, and MAMT. I absolutely loved 'Prince Igor' at the Bolshoi - everything else was just okay or terrible, to be honest... But 'The Little Shoes' at Helikon was amazing, right up there with 'Prince Igor' (which is still my number one in my personal rankings, especially after remembering 'Polezian Dances' - it gives me chills...).