Remember this address: Marszałkowska 138. This is Teatr Kwadrat. It is more than just a building. It is a place where laughter echoes and stories come alive.
Teatr Kwadrat began in 1974. The Radio and Television Committee had a vision. They wanted a space dedicated to the art of theatre. Edward Dziewoński became the first director. He laid the foundation for what the Kwadrat is today.
However, history took a turn. Martial law struck in 1982. The Kwadrat ceased its operations. But the story does not end here. The theatre found a temporary home. It became the second stage of Teatr Na Woli.
Then, in 1985, another change occurred. Teatr Na Woli closed. The stage went to the National Theatre. Yet, Warsaw’s president, Mieczysław Dębicki, made a decision. He chose to revive Teatr Kwadrat. Edmund Kamil Karwański took over as director. He stayed in the role until 2010.
In July 2010, Andrzej Nejman became the director. In June 2023 Ewa Wencel won the competition for the new director. She started her 5-season term in September 2023.
Teatr Kwadrat has seen many stars grace its stage. Ewa Wiśniewska and Stanisława Celińska performed here. Irena Kwiatkowska and Barbara Rylska also appeared. Małgorzata Foremniak and Janusz Gajos have been part of the Kwadrat’s story. Krzysztof Kowalewski and Jerzy Bończak are among the greats. Even Jerzy Turek, Jan Kociniak, Wojciech Pokora, and Tomasz Stockinger have contributed.
The Kwadrat is known for its comedies and farces. It stages works by English and American authors. But it also cherishes Polish writers. Stanisław Tym and Sławomir Mrożek are among them. Marek Rębacza and Marcin Szczygielski are, too.
In 2022, the Kameralna Stage received a special honor. It was named after Jan Kobuszewski. This recognizes his contribution to Polish theatre.
Looking at the program you can see the variety of performances. “Szalone nożyczki” is playing. Also “Złodziej” is playing. You could watch “Promieniowanie” or “Umrzeć ze śmiechu”. Perhaps “Ciotka Karola 4.1” or “Usuń ze znajomych” is something for you?
The Kwadrat continues to evolve. It adapts to the times. Yet it always retains its core. It’s a place for laughter, reflection, and shared experiences. As you stand here remember the Kwadrat’s past. Appreciate its present. And anticipate its future.