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. ==See also==