“A cultural gem hidden in plain sight” someone whispered. That’s the Strašnické divadlo for you. We stand before this unassuming building in Prague 10. Its history is richer than you might imagine.
The Strašnické divadlo didn’t start as a theatre. It began life as a cultural center. Built between 1958 and 1961. The architect was Karel Poličanský. It included a library and a restaurant. Above the entrance. A striking ceramic relief depicts a technician a young family and a harpist. Sculptor Valerian Karoušek created this beautiful piece.
Later renovations in 1969 and 2006 transformed the space into a proper theatre. Technical booths were added to the foyer. Spaces for actors were also created. A low saddle roof was added in 1996 extending over the original audience area.
The Strašnické divadlo’s most glorious chapter came when the Divadlo Járy Cimrmana troupe performed here. The 250-seat hall was always full. The theatre even appeared in the film Nejistá sezóna. But in 1992 the Cimrman company moved on. The Obvodní kulturní dům also ceased operations that year.
Divadlo Solidarita then took its place. In 2004 Divadlo Company.cz took over. Eva Bergerová led this civic association. They ran the building for a decade. They presented plays like Rovner’s Bílá vrána and Meyrink’s Golem. They also hosted music and dance performances and film nights. A small intimate stage was created where the old library used to be. Children’s plays were a key part of their programming.
In 2006 the building officially became the Strašnické divadlo. Today. It’s the only repertory theatre in Prague 10. Serving a population of roughly 111000. Since 2013 Divadlo X10 has been based here focusing on contemporary drama. They also put on site-specific projects. These projects highlight the unique character of the place. This strengthens the theatre’s role in the community. Divadlo X10 also created the strašNICE festival held both inside and in the nearby park.
Divadlo X10 stayed at the Strašnické divadlo until June 2018. Since 2017. They also managed spaces in the House of Artistic Industry in central Prague. They fully relocated there after leaving the Strašnické divadlo.
So here we are. Before this theatre. It has hosted everything from world-famous comedy troupes to intimate community projects. It’s a testament to the enduring power of the arts and the ever-evolving identity of a neighborhood. The Strašnické divadlo is more than just a building. It’s a living piece of Prague’s vibrant cultural landscape.