“Could this unassuming building possibly house a world of theatrical innovation?” That question often dances in the minds of those who first encounter Studio DK;Divadlo Kámen. This is not just a theatre. It is a Prague-based authorial theatre and artistic salon.
Studio DK;Divadlo Kámen has been captivating audiences since 2007. It is located near the Invalidovna metro station in Karlín. But its history stretches back further. Divadlo Kámen was founded in 1998. Since then, it has produced over 35 original productions.
Initially, Divadlo Kámen performed in various Prague clubs. These included Studio Damúza and Klub Klamovka. From 2004 to 2007, they regularly performed at the Žižkov Theatre of Járy Cimrman and the Theatre in Celetná.
Petr Odo Macháček is the founder, artistic director and main author of Studio DK;Divadlo Kámen. He was named Personality of the Year in 2013 at the …příští vlna/next wave… festival.
Divadlo Kámen is known for its unique approach to modern drama. They use physical theatre, musicality and improvisation. They emphasize minimalist techniques. They focus on live personal acting. Its performances offer multidimensional experiences. They encourage free interpretation. They always include humor.
The theatre relies on a core group of actors. These actors are integral to the creative process. Notable performers include Zdeňka Brychtová and Lucie Zachovalová. Lenka Chadimová and Kristýna Suchá also perform here. Miroslav Paulíček is an actor and sociologist of art. Vladimir Benderski is an actor and dancer.
Several Divadlo Kámen productions have received acclaim. Výhled na řeku Labe is a dramatic tale. It explores the backstage world of Formula One racing. Dopis poslaný poštou is a detective story. It delves into other worlds. It features modern Czech poetry. Mamut mamut is a slightly disharmonic business drama. It features original music. Přibližně dvaatřicet zubů is a conceptual chase. It is based on Viktor Pelevin’s novel. OK plus F explores the illusions of art. It is inspired by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
In collaboration with the Ostrava Center for New Music, they created the opera Táhlý zvlněný pohyb podélného předmětu. Divadlo Kámen also hosts the theatrical-improvisational project Éliška kolem twice a year. They invite guest artists. Kateřina Dvořáková and Petr Marek have appeared in this show.
Divadlo Kámen offers seminars and workshops. These focus on dramatic minimalism and formalism. In 2018, they held a week-long seminar at the Jiráskův Hronov festival. They also host debates with artists and actors. These discussions cover contemporary art and its connections to sociology. Teatrologists Jan Císař and Vladimír Hulec have participated in discussions here.
The artistic salon of Divadlo Kámen hosts lectures and walks. These explore art history. Vladimír Czumalo and Jakub Synecký have lectured here. The café gallery exhibits contemporary artists. Jindřich Lerch and Jaroslav Chramosta have displayed their art here.
In 2013, Divadlo Kámen published a book about its history from 1998 to 2012. They also published maps of art in public spaces.
Divadlo Kámen is a member of the Association of Independent Theatres CR.
As you leave Studio DK;Divadlo Kámen, remember that you have witnessed a company dedicated to pushing boundaries. They embrace originality. They invite audiences to think. They offer a unique theatrical experience.