Spejbl and Hurvínek Theatre

The Spejbl and Hurvínek Theatre is one of Prague's most distinctive puppet theatres, located in the Dejvice district. Its roots go back to 1930, when puppeteer Josef Skupa founded it in Plzeň as the first professional puppet stage in all of Czechoslovakia. That stage gave birth to the pair of characters whose names the theatre still carries today.

Where did Spejbl and Hurvínek come from?

The father figure, Spejbl, actually appeared on stage as early as 1920, before the theatre was formally established, while his son Hurvínek joined him in 1926. Together they embody two generations and their contrasting outlooks on life — a theme that still runs through the repertoire. They are joined on stage by a recurring cast of characters: Mánička, Mrs. Kateřina, and the dog Žeryk.

How did the theatre survive the war?

The theatre's history has not always been smooth. In 1944, Nazi occupation authorities shut it down, and Josef Skupa himself was imprisoned for activities opposing the regime. After his escape from captivity and the end of the war, the theatre resumed operations in 1945 — this time in Prague, where it has run continuously ever since. It moved to its current address at Dejvická 38 in the mid-1990s.

What is currently on the programme?

The repertoire is centred mainly on performances for children, though the theatre also stages productions aimed at adult audiences. It is worth knowing that most shows are performed in Czech without surtitles; visitors looking for something more accessible can arrange a private performance with English-language commentary.

Why does this place hold special status?

The puppetry tradition associated with Spejbl and Hurvínek has been inscribed on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage as part of Czech puppet theatre. That recognition reflects the fact that this is not merely a tourist attraction but a living piece of Czech culture, passed down for nearly a century. The building itself recently underwent a renovation lasting almost a year, after which the stage returned to its historic home.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the theatre located? In Prague's Dejvice district, at Dejvická 38.

Are the performances understandable without knowing Czech? Most shows are performed in Czech without translation, though groups can book a session with English-language commentary.

Who are the performances aimed at? Mainly children, although the repertoire also includes productions for adult audiences.

How long has the theatre existed? It was founded in 1930 in Plzeň, while its central characters, Spejbl and Hurvínek, first appeared on stage even earlier, in 1920 and 1926 respectively.

Does this place carry any official recognition? Yes, the puppetry tradition tied to this theatre is listed as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.