Lázeňské divadlo

Lázeňské divadlo (Spa Theatre) is a historic theatre building in Luhačovice, one of the best-known spa towns in the Moravian region of the Czech Republic. Standing in the heart of the town's spa district, it has served as the cultural centre of the resort for more than a century.

When was the theatre built?

The building's story is tied to the development of Luhačovice as a spa resort in the early 20th century. In 1902, the joint-stock company Luhačovice Spas was founded, taking over the local mineral springs and several spa houses. Under the leadership of its founder, František Veselý, the company sought to raise the resort's profile and turn it into a social and cultural hub. Before a dedicated theatre building existed, performances from 1905 onward were held in a makeshift reading room converted from a former manor cowshed. The proper brick theatre building was designed by architect František Skopalík, and its official opening took place on 27 June 1908.

What role did the theatre play in resort life?

From the outset, Lázeňské divadlo became a meeting point for the cultural and social elite visiting Luhačovice. Already in its second season, the building hosted Prague's Švanda Intimate Theatre, whose actors lodged in the nearby Villa Valaška. In the following years, operetta performances proved especially popular, and the Czech Philharmonic also appeared on its stage. In 1914, the well-known cabaret Červená sedma performed there. The theatre and the resort itself are associated with the names of prominent Czech composers - Leoš Janáček, Bohuslav Martinů and Josef Suk - who were among the guests of Luhačovice during that era.

How did the theatre's fortunes change over time?

The theatre reached its greatest prominence during the interwar period, known in Czech history as the First Republic, when the resort drew crowds of visitors from across Central Europe. After 1945, the number of performances gradually declined, and the theatre went through periods of reduced activity. The situation improved from 1979 onward, since when theatre companies from Uherské Hradiště, Olomouc, Brno and Prague have regularly performed on its stage.

What happens at the theatre today?

Lázeňské divadlo remains an active cultural venue and one of the landmarks of Luhačovice. It hosts events such as the Janáček and Luhačovice Festival, the Václav Hudeček Academy, the Divadelní Luhačovice theatre showcase, and a festival of song and dance. The neoclassical building continues to be an important architectural feature of the spa quarter and a popular stop for visitors strolling through Luhačovice.

Frequently asked questions

When did Lázeňské divadlo open? The theatre building was officially opened on 27 June 1908, designed by architect František Skopalík.

Where were performances held before the theatre was built? From 1905, performances took place in a makeshift reading room converted from a former manor cowshed.

Which notable artists were connected to the theatre? Composers Leoš Janáček, Bohuslav Martinů and Josef Suk were among the notable figures associated with Luhačovice and its theatre, which also hosted Prague's Švanda Intimate Theatre and the Czech Philharmonic.

Is the theatre still in use? Yes, the venue remains active and regularly hosts cultural events, including music and theatre festivals.