Ever wonder how a former factory transformed into a hub for modern dance? Welcome to Divadlo Ponec. This Žižkov theatre has a rich history. It stands as a testament to Prague’s evolving cultural landscape.
In 1888, the building was erected. It served as a rolling mill and wire drawing plant. Rudolf Stabenow owned it. Imagine the factory bustling with workers. Picture machines churning out metal products.
František Ponec changed the building’s destiny in 1910. He was a travelling cinema pioneer. Ponec leased the hall. He transformed it into the Royal Bioskop Františka Ponce. It was Žižkov’s third permanent cinema. Imagine silent films flickering on the screen. People flocked to experience this new form of entertainment at Bio Ponec.
The cinema operated for ten years under Ponec. After losing his lease, the Žižkov municipality took over. In 1929, it was renamed Městské bio Žižkov. After František Ponec’s death, it was renamed Bio Ponec in his honor. The reels rolled until 1968. Later, the building became a storage facility for the Film Company of Prague. It sadly fell into disrepair.
The city of Prague took ownership. In 1997, a public competition sought cultural uses for the building. Tanec Praha, a civic association, won. A demanding renovation took place. In 2001, Divadlo Ponec opened its doors. It was a theatre dedicated to dance.
Today, Divadlo Ponec is a space for modern dance and related arts. It supports independent dance. It also explores connections with other genres. Annually, Divadlo Ponec co-produces seven to ten premieres.
From 2004 to 2010, Czech TV filmed “Uvolněte se, prosím” here with Jan Kraus. The show moved to TV Prima. It was renamed “Show Jana Krause”. The Divadlo Ponec is barrier-free.
Each June, the International Festival of Contemporary Dance takes place. It presents dance to a wider audience. Divadlo Ponec also hosts the Czech Dance Platform. This showcases Czech dance.
The most prestigious award for dance is the Cena Sazky. OS Tanec Praha collaborates with Sazka a.s. in its presentation. The award supports artists creating new productions. Divadlo Ponec’s spaces are available for this purpose.
Divadlo Ponec stands as a beacon. It illuminates the vibrant dance scene in Prague. From factory to cinema to dance theatre, it has transformed. It continues to evolve. It inspires artists. It captivates audiences.