The Latvian National Opera Guild in the USA and the Latvian National Opera Foundation (LNOF) have joined forces for the first time to raise funds for the restoration of the Latvian National Opera historic building’s entrance foyer. Everyone is invited to support this project, which aims to install a historically appropriate, ornamented floor covering that reflects the unique character of the theatre’s iconic building.

The most extensive renovation of the Opera House took place nearly thirty years ago, in the autumn of 1995. However, several temporary interior solutions remain in place to this day, including the foyer floor – a concrete surface that does not match the historic interior and has reached the end of its aesthetic and functional life. Since this past summer, the Opera House has been undergoing energy-efficiency improvements funded by the EU Recovery Facility, continuing until June 2026. While some historic interior elements will be refreshed during this process, the restoration of the foyer floor is not included due to limited funding and project constraints.

“With gratitude and pride, we support this important initiative. From the moment visitors step into the Opera House, they will be able to feel the spirit and beauty of its historical era – and this will be a lasting contribution for generations to come. I encourage everyone to take part in restoring the splendour of our interiors,” says Sandis Voldiņš, Chairman of the Board of the Latvian National Opera and Ballet.

As was the case thirty years ago, the interior restoration is entrusted to architect Liesma Markova. She explains: “Once restored, the foyer will bring the Opera House much closer to its late 19th- and early 20th-century appearance. Visitors will experience a reconstruction grounded in historical sources. The foyer is like an overture that sets the tone. Guests will step into an environment that prepares them for the auditorium, where the spirit of late 19th-century interior design will be felt just as it may have been in Riga at the dawn of that era.”

Ivars Slokenbergs, President of the LNO Guild, adds: “Just as the old legend says that Riga must never be finished lest it sink, our White House thrives through movement and renewal. That is why the LNO Guild is proud to join this ambitious project and, together with the LNO Foundation, take responsibility for restoring the historic interior of the Opera’s entrance foyer.”

“We want to become part of history and leave something lasting and beautiful for future generations who will visit and admire the Opera House. With genuine enthusiasm, we invite everyone to support this project!” says Aivo Leimanis, Board Member of the LNOF.

According to the memorandum of intent signed by the LNO Guild, LNOF, and the Latvian National Opera and Ballet, the partners aim to raise USD 150,000 and EUR 50,000 in donations.

To honour the most generous supporters, a special plaque will be installed in the foyer, listing donors who contribute more than USD 3,000 or EUR 2,000.

All donors who contribute to LNOF with the reference “For the restoration of the foyer’s historic interior” will become LNOF members and receive all membership benefits, including early ticket access to the most in-demand LNOB performances and concerts.

At the conclusion of the project, each donor will receive a token of appreciation and an invitation to the festive opening of the restored foyer.

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Donation details:
Latvijas Nacionālās operas fonds
Reg. No. 40008029080
Bank: AS Swedbank
SWIFT: HABA LV22
Account No.: LV64HABA000140J033884
Payment purpose: “For the restoration of the foyer’s historic interior”

Learn more about donor opportunities HERE.