The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania (Albanian: Teatri Kombëtar i Operas dhe Baletit - TKOB) is a theatre in Tirana, Albania. It is the largest theatre in the country, and hosts music and dance performances year round. History The National Opera and Ballet Theatre was founded on 29 November 1953. It first operated within the building of the University of Arts of Albania and subsequently transferred into the Palace of Culture of Tirana building in central Tirana. The theatre helped develop the capital's arts scene, since formerly there had been no venue for performances. Since the theatre's inception, groups and orchestras from various countries in the communist bloc came to give performances. The national Song and Dance Ensemble often performs at the national theatre. The Theatre reports to the Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Sports and is financed out of the state budget. Today, the Opera presents works by Albanian and international composers. Tickets can be purchased on-site. It employs 196 persons. In 2016, the Prime Minister of Albania announced that the Theatre will be reconstructed. See also List of concert halls Academy of Music and Arts of Albania Palace of Culture of Tirana National Gallery of Figurative Arts of Albania References External links Official website Theatres in Albania Opera houses in Albania Tourist attractions in Tirana Buildings and structures in Tirana Performing groups established in 1953 1953 establishments in Albania