Built in 1928 Divadlo Minor stands proudly in Prague. This isn’t just any theatre. It’s a place where magic happens for children and young people. Originally a puppet theatre it’s evolved into something truly special.
Divadlo Minor started its life in a different location entirely. In 1950 it opened its doors. It premiered Alois Jirasek’s Pan Johannes. This was a puppet theatre. It aimed for maximum realism on stage. Its early years favoured Soviet productions. However it also created original Czech puppet shows. One such show is Josef Kainar’s Zlatovláska still performed today.
The 1960s saw a shift. The theatre moved away from strict illusion. It experimented with different types of puppets masks and black theatre. The production of Král jelenem King Stag is a standout example. This performance borrowed from the Italian commedia dell’arte. Another memorable production was Mýdlový flíček Soap Bubble. This show featured exposed puppeteers a revolutionary approach at the time.
Divadlo Minor has undergone several name changes. It became Divadlo Loutka Puppet Theatre in 1975 after renovations. Later it was known as Divadlo u Vltavy and Divadlo u Jindřišské věže. In 1991 it finally settled on Divadlo Minor. Under director Karel Makonj it explored existential and ethical themes. Productions like Poutník hvězd The Little Prince captivated audiences.
Then came a significant change. In 1999 the original building was demolished. Divadlo Minor moved to its current location on Vodičkova Street. The new building opened in 2001 winning awards like Stavba roku Building of the Year and a Prague Mayor’s Prize. It’s a unique space for children’s cultural activities.
The current Divadlo Minor thrives. It collaborates with DAMU’s Department of Alternative and Puppet Theatre. Many productions have emerged from this partnership. International collaborations have also taken place. The theatre participated in EU-funded projects like Culture Alchemy and LINGUA. The Goodies a production from the LINGUA project even toured to Dublin.
Today Divadlo Minor isn’t just a theatre. It’s a cultural centre. It features the Minor Passage with interactive exhibitions and workshops. The theatre also offers educational programs for schools and the public. Divadlo Minor continues to enchant audiences of all ages. It provides a truly unique theatre experience in Prague.