Gavella Drama Theatre

Gavella Drama Theatre (Gradsko dramsko kazalište Gavella) is a drama theatre on Frankopanska Street in central Zagreb. It ranks among the most important dramatic stages in Croatia and is a good choice for an evening out if you want to see Croatian theatre life up close.

Where is the theatre?

The building stands at Frankopanska 10, in the central part of Zagreb, close to the main streets and squares of the city. The coordinates are roughly 45.812 N, 15.969 E. It is an easy walk from the Lower Town, so a visit fits neatly into a stroll through the centre.

How did the theatre begin?

The story starts in 1953, when a group of young actors and directors left the Croatian National Theatre to form their own company. Dr Branko Gavella led them as the first among equals. They took over the building of the former Small Theatre (Malo kazalište) on Frankopanska and founded the Zagreb Drama Theatre. Accounts of the building's earlier life differ. English Wikipedia says the theatre succeeded the Helios cinema, financed by the industrialist Adolf Müller, while the theatre's own website points to the Small Theatre.

The theatre opened on 30 October 1954 with Miroslav Krleža's "Golgota", directed by Gavella himself. Because the premises were being renovated, an earlier performance was staged as a guest appearance in Subotica.

Who was Branko Gavella?

Branko Gavella (1885–1962) was a director, theatre manager, teacher and critic. He also helped found the Zagreb Academy of Theatrical Arts, established in 1950. His name is now carried by both the theatre and a festival tied to this stage.

Gavella Evenings

The festival Gavellini večeri (Gavella Evenings) was launched in 1973. Until 2013 it held the status of a national festival, showcasing productions from stages across Croatia over many years.

Is Gavella worth visiting?

It suits anyone who enjoys spoken drama and wants to meet Croatian culture through its stage. Performances are mainly in Croatian, so before buying tickets it helps to check whether a given show offers surtitles or whether knowing the plot beforehand will be enough. The building and its history are also a good reason to stop on Frankopanska even if you are not planning to see a show.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Gavella Drama Theatre? At Frankopanska 10 in central Zagreb.

When was it founded? The company was formed in 1953, and the first premiere in its home took place on 30 October 1954.

Who founded it? A group of actors and directors who left the Croatian National Theatre, led by Branko Gavella.

What was the first production? Miroslav Krleža's "Golgota", directed by Gavella.

Are performances in English? The repertoire is chiefly in Croatian, so check the programme and subtitle availability on the theatre's website before your visit.