Hudební divadlo Karlín

Gazing upon the Hudební divadlo Karlín, one might hear whispers of elephants trumpeting within its walls. This isn’t a hallucination, but a lingering echo of the theatre’s surprising origins. The Hudební divadlo Karlín, Prague’s second largest theatre after the State Opera, first opened its doors not for opera or musicals, but for a circus! In 1881, businessman Eduard Tichy envisioned a grand varieté theatre in the burgeoning Karlín district. Architect Otto Ehlen designed a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece, complete with stables for 84 horses and a stage robust enough for elephants and other performing animals. The Théâtre Variété, as it was then known, hosted the Royal Belgian Circus for its grand opening, showcasing trained horses and elaborate carriages. Imagine the spectacle! Hudební divadlo Karlín’s early years were a vibrant mix of acrobats, animal acts, and variety shows. It even boasted appearances by the likes of Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel. However, change was on the horizon. In 1885, with the demolition of the Novoměstské Theatre and the subsequent need for a summer venue, Hudební divadlo Karlín adapted. The circus ring was replaced with a stage, and the theatre hosted the Theater an der Wien’s performance of Strauss’s “The Gypsy Baron”. Hudební divadlo Karlín’s transformation continued, undergoing renovations in 1897 led by architect Friedrich Ohmann. He infused the interiors with a rich Neo-Baroque aesthetic, creating the opulent atmosphere we see hints of today. Through the 20th century, Hudební divadlo Karlín evolved, serving as a provisional stage for the National Theatre during World War II, then becoming a prominent venue for operettas and musicals after 1945. The theatre continued to draw audiences, its stage graced by Czech theatre legends such as Jan Werich and Jára Pospíšil. Fast forward to 2002, a devastating flood submerged the theatre, necessitating extensive renovations. The Hudební divadlo Karlín emerged once again in 2006, its historic charm blended with modern architectural elements. Today, it stands as a testament to its resilient spirit, continuing to enchant audiences with its diverse repertoire of musicals and operettas.