Pidivadlo

Pidivadlo is a small theatre in Prague's Holešovice district, on Letohradská street, close to Letná park and the buildings of the National Technical Museum. The venue's intimate character is reflected in its name, which combines a diminutive with the Czech word for a theatre stage.

Where exactly is Pidivadlo located?

The theatre occupies a corner building in the Neo-Renaissance style, part of a 19th-century block of rental apartment houses in Prague's Holešovice district. Its proximity to Letná makes it easy to pair an evening at the theatre with a walk in the park or a visit to the nearby technical museum.

What is the history of the building?

The building was constructed in 1890 as a three-storey house designed by Holešovice builder Josef Tampier. It originally housed a café. It was only in 1994 that the former café premises were converted: the left wing of the building became a small theatre stage (Divadélko), while the right wing retained a food-and-drink function, known as the U Panáků café. This split between a theatrical and a café function has survived to this day and gives the venue its distinctive, intimate atmosphere.

What does Pidivadlo stage?

Pidivadlo serves as the permanent stage of an acting college (Herecká akademie), where students and young actors present their productions. The repertoire is varied, including performances aimed at children as well as shows for adult audiences. This draws a broad mix of visitors — families attending afternoon shows for children, and fans of student and experimental theatre coming for evening performances.

Who is this venue for?

Pidivadlo appeals to visitors looking for an alternative to Prague's large, established theatre stages. The small hall, close proximity to the actors, and the student character of the repertoire give performances a more direct and experimental feel than at bigger institutions. It is also a good option for families visiting Prague with children who want to add a culture stop tailored to younger audiences.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Pidivadlo located? On Letohradská street in Holešovice, near Letná park.

Does the building have historical value? Yes — it is a Neo-Renaissance house from 1890, designed by Josef Tampier, typical of the 19th-century development of Holešovice.

What kind of repertoire does the theatre offer? Performances for children and for adults, mostly staged by students of an acting college.

Is there a café at the theatre? Yes, the right wing of the building houses the U Panáků café, historically linked to the building's original use.

Is it worth combining a visit with sightseeing nearby? Yes — Letná park and the National Technical Museum are both close by, making it easy to plan a full afternoon in Holešovice.