Prague National Theatre Launches Comprehensive Renovation of the New Stage

The National Theatre in Prague has begun the comprehensive reconstruction of the New Stage. The focus is on preserving the original architecture, which will be carefully complemented with modern technology. In this way, the building is to retain its character while also meeting the demands of a contemporary theatre operation.

The Národní divadlo officially began the comprehensive renovation of the Nová scéna (New Stage) on Tuesday. The start was marked by the handover of the cleared building to the construction consortium led by Metrostav CZ. The construction works are expected to take around two years. The contract volume amounts to just under 1.81 billion crowns.

Before construction began, Prime Minister Andrej Babiš and Culture Minister Oto Klempíř, among others, took a final look at the building together with representatives of the National Theatre and the construction company.

Foto: Národní divadlo

Modernisation with a view to the future

The renovation aims to further develop the New Stage into a highly modern, multifunctional theatre space. Plans include, among other things, a flexible design of the auditorium and stage, which can be adapted depending on the production thanks to modern technology.

Director General Jan Burian emphasised that this would realise an original vision of the architects and artists behind the building – now, however, with the technical possibilities of the 21st century. Prime Minister Babiš also underlined the importance of the project: the New Stage must evolve into a contemporary theatre that offers both artistic innovation and a high level of comfort for audiences and performers.

Architectural heritage will be preserved

Despite the extensive modernisation, the external appearance of the building will remain unchanged. Key architectural elements inside will also be preserved and carefully restored. These include, among others, the characteristic green serpentine cladding, the striking spiral staircase, as well as the light installation by Pavel Hlava and Jaroslav Štursa.

Foto: Národní divadlo

The iconic glass façade with around 4,000 glass elements by artist Stanislav Libenský, which gives the New Stage its distinctive appearance, will also be preserved.

After completion of the works, the New Stage will be significantly more versatile in use. Plans include a multifunctional hall with up to 500 seats, variable acoustics and modern stage technology. The offer will be complemented by an additional smaller hall, rehearsal rooms and new spaces for educational and accompanying programmes.

The visitor experience is also set to improve: a new café area will be created on the ground floor, further connecting the theatre with the public space at Václav Havel Square.

Foto: Národní divadlo

Investment in the future of culture

Culture Minister Klempíř described the reconstruction as an investment in the future of Czech culture. In addition to preserving tradition, the aim is above all to create space for new artistic forms and international cooperation.

Alongside functional improvements, the project also brings ecological benefits: both buildings will be technically modernised, which is expected to significantly reduce energy consumption and operating costs.

Národní divadlo (Czech National Theatre)
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