Divadlo v Řeznické

Divadlo v Řeznické is Prague's smallest theatre, tucked into the basement of a residential building on Řeznická street in the New Town district. With a seating capacity of just 72 to 81 spectators, the venue creates an unusually close, almost domestic connection between performers and audience — a trait that has defined its identity for decades.

What was on this site before the theatre existed?

Long before it became a stage, the building at Řeznická had a varied past. During the First Czechoslovak Republic, a wine tavern called "V chaloupce," run by Emil Artur Longen, occupied the space. In the 1960s, the premises housed a youth organization's club, and from 1948 it served as a student dormitory named after Petra Jilemnická — initially for married student couples, and from 1963 for graduate students, with Charles University making use of the building from 1951 onward.

When did the theatre actually begin?

The theatrical chapter of this address opened in 1981 under the name "Klub v Řeznické," although artistic activity had already started informally in 1980, without a permanent ensemble or fixed repertoire. Early programming relied on amateur groups, the collective Prague Five, and students from DAMU, Prague's academy of performing arts. Throughout this formative period, Doubravka Svobodová acted as both dramaturge and director, shaping the venue's artistic direction.

How did it become an independent theatre?

In 1990, Svobodová succeeded in separating the club from the youth organization's property. Between 1990 and 1993 the venue operated under the City House of Prague 1, and on January 1, 1994, it was formally recognized as an independent theatre, funded by the Prague 1 Municipal Office ever since.

What kind of program does the theatre run today?

The chamber stage focuses primarily on drama, cultivating a repertoire distinct from Prague's larger commercial houses. Its foyer regularly hosts exhibitions of paintings and photography, while the broader program includes musical and literary evenings, audience discussions, and book launch events. This mix of activities positions the theatre as more than a drama stage alone — it functions as a small cultural hub for its neighborhood.

Where exactly is the theatre located?

Divadlo v Řeznické sits at Řeznická 17, in Prague's New Town (Nové Město), occupying a modest basement space within an apartment building. Despite its unassuming, below-street presence, the central location means it is easily reachable on foot from the city's main tourist landmarks.

Frequently asked questions

How many seats does Divadlo v Řeznické have? The studio stage holds between 72 and 81 spectators, making it one of the smallest theatres in Prague.

Since when has it operated as an independent theatre? It has held official independent status since January 1, 1994, though artistic activity at the site dates back to 1980–1981.

Who shaped the theatre's artistic identity? Doubravka Svobodová was the key figure, serving as dramaturge and director from the earliest days through the venue's transition to independence.

What does the theatre offer besides drama performances? Art and photography exhibitions in the foyer, plus musical-literary evenings and public discussions tied to book launches.

Who funds the theatre's operations? It is financed by the Prague 1 Municipal Office, which has supported its activity since it became independent in 1994.