In the heart of Holešovice, nestled between Letná Plain and the National Technical Museum, lies Pidivadlo. This charming theatre, whose name itself speaks to its intimate atmosphere, resides in a former 19th-century coffee shop. The building, originally a three-story Neo-Renaissance structure, has seen its fair share of transformations over the years.
Pidivadlo wasn’t always a haven for the performing arts. In the 1970s, the space served a more practical purpose, housing tailoring workshops. However, the echoes of creativity lingered. In 1994, a remarkable transformation took place, breathing new life into the aging walls. Led by the design office PRO 91, the former coffee shop underwent a complete metamorphosis, emerging as the Pidivadlo we know today.
The renovations carefully preserved the theatre’s historical charm. The entrance remains the same, welcoming patrons into a small, intimate foyer. A corner houses the ticket booth, while a cloakroom stands ready to receive coats and hats. The theatre itself, a chamber venue with a capacity of 57, boasts a raised stage and an auditorium designed for optimal viewing. Pidivadlo, though small in stature, resonates with a grand history. It is a testament to the enduring power of transformation, a place where the past and present intertwine to create something truly special.