The construction of the theatre building was initiated by J. Tõnisson and completed with the financial support of the Estonian building. It was built according to a project by the Finnish architect A. Lindgren and became one of the most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings in Tartu. The building was completed in 1906. Here, with the production of Tuulte pöörises by A. Kitzberg, began the story of Vanemuine as the first professional theatre in Estonia. The sculpture of the legendary theatre director K. Menning on the terrace of the theatre cafe was erected to celebrate the 100th anniversary of this. Vanemuine Theatre was also an important venue for events before World War I. The current building was completed in 1967 to replace the building which was destroyed in World War II.