“They say these walls whisper secrets” a woman’s voice murmured. We stand before Divadlo Za plotem in Prague’s Bohnice district. This isn’t just any theatre. It’s a cultural heart beating within the grounds of the Psychiatric Hospital Bohnice.
Divadlo Za plotem meaning Theatre Behind the Fence has a rich history. Construction began around 1926. It officially opened in June 1932. For decades it hosted performances primarily for the hospital’s patients. It was part of their therapy. Patients and staff even formed a theatre group.
The building itself is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a testament to architectural styles. It blends elements of Art Nouveau with historicism. A significant renovation in 1991 focused on improving the facilities. Smaller repairs followed in later years. These included restoring original paintings.
In 2006 the Czech Ministry of Culture declared the entire hospital complex a cultural landmark. This includes Divadlo Za plotem. Its registration number is 40605/1-1570.
But the theatre’s story doesn’t end there. After 1991 Divadlo Za plotem transformed. It became a community centre. It welcomes the public. It hosts concerts film screenings and theatre performances. It regularly organises large festivals such as Mezi ploty Legendy and Babí léto.
Since 1999 visitors can enjoy refreshments in the pleasant setting of the Klub V. kolona winter garden. The theatre’s commitment extends to supporting local artists. It showcases the artwork of patients. Think Art Brut.
Divadlo Za plotem rents out its spaces too. Schools and other organisations use it for workshops seminars and even balls. The theatre offers affordable rental rates. Especially for schools kindergartens and children’s organisations.
Divadlo Za plotem stands in the southwestern corner of the hospital grounds. It’s near the old Bohnice castle and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. The central part of the theatre is dominant. It’s flanked by smaller hospital pavilions. Ground-floor winter gardens connect them all. Today’s building closely resembles the original one.
The theatre’s symmetrical T-shaped layout is striking. The main entrance is prominent. It features a sandstone sculpture. The sculpture depicts a seated man. He holds a lyre in one hand. He leans towards a deer at his side. The artwork’s creator remains unknown.
The main hall has a remarkable feature. It has a flat floor and no fixed seating. This allows for diverse events. It can host performances but also concerts and gatherings. The hall has a capacity of 196 seats in traditional rows. This can become 50 seats with tables and 110 seats. The balconies offer another 50 seats or 20 seats.
The preserved stucco decoration and brass lighting are a joy. The original terrazzo floors still gleam. The winter gardens are a unique aspect. They connect the theatre to adjacent hospital buildings. They have original retractable glass roofs. Though now covered with sheet metal.
Divadlo Za plotem isn’t just a theatre. It’s a place of healing art and community. A place where stories both on and off stage continue to unfold. It’s a living testament to the power of art and resilience. Remember Divadlo Za plotem. Remember its story.