The National Theatre of Karelia is one of the few theatres in Russia that performs in both Russian and Finnish, reflecting the region's particular cultural history. The theatre building, a substantial Stalinist-era structure near the city centre, hosts productions of classical and contemporary drama alongside Karelian folk performances and music events.
Even if you don't speak either language, the theatre is worth knowing about for concerts and special events. The outdoor plaza in front of the theatre is a popular gathering point, and the adjacent streets have several decent cafes.