In mid-November, Prague will host a special gala evening: at the Divadlo na Vinohradech, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Václav Havel will take centre stage. The evening “Dalai Lama 90, Havel 89” celebrates culture, friendship and values such as freedom and compassion.
On 11 November 2025, the Divadlo na Vinohradech (Theatre Vinohrady) in Prague will be the setting for a remarkable cultural event. Under the title “Dalai Lama 90, Havel 89 – Tribute to His Holiness the Dalai Lama”, a gala evening will take place that brings together two extraordinary personalities – His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Václav Havel.
The event honours the 90th birthday of the Dalai Lama and also commemorates Václav Havel (5 October 1936; † 18 December 2011), who would have turned 89 earlier this October. Both men symbolise values that are more relevant today than ever: freedom, truth, humanity and compassion.
The evening is organised by the association Czechs Support Tibet, in collaboration with the Václav Havel Library and United Islands. The patronage has been assumed by President Petr Pavel, Senate Vice-President Jitka Seitlová and Prague Mayor Bohuslav Svoboda. Penpa Tsering, the Sikyong (Prime Minister) of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, has also confirmed his attendance.
The gala will be hosted by well-known journalists Jakub Železný and Světlana Witovská, who will guide the audience through a varied programme. In addition to musical performances and artistic contributions, the book “The Dalai Lama & Havel – Warriors for Truth & Love” will be presented – a tribute to the deep friendship between the two men, whose encounters became a symbol of moral strength and mutual respect. The Dalai Lama will not attend the event in person, but he will be present in word and image.
Some of the most renowned names of the Czech cultural scene will ensure a lively atmosphere: Aneta Langerová, David Koller, Rudy Linka, Ben Cristovao, Karol Komenda, Jan Budař, I Love You Honey Bunny, as well as the Tibetan ensemble White Yak, which will underscore the spiritual atmosphere of the evening with traditional sounds.
Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the organisation Czechs Support Tibet. The association, a partner of the International Campaign for Tibet, has been committed for years to human rights, cultural and religious freedom, and environmental protection in Tibet. It supports the work of the Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, and the Tibetan Parliament, advocates for political prisoners and promotes projects that strengthen the connection between Czechs and Tibetans.
The gala evening “Dalai Lama 90, Havel 89” promises to be an emotional and inspiring event – an evening that honours two personalities who changed the world with courage, humour and humanity.
Tickets are now available at connect.boomevents.org.
