Prague’s Dejvické divadlo, one of the Czech Republic’s most celebrated theaters, is preparing for a return to its home in Prague 6 in early 2027. The move, slated for completion by the autumn of 2026, marks the end of a temporary relocation necessitated by extensive renovations to the historic building. For now, theatergoers will still need to travel to the former Galaxie cinema in Prague 11 to experience performances by the acclaimed company, a situation that will continue through the fall, according to Prague 6 Deputy Mayor Petr Prokop.
The Dejvické divadlo, known for its innovative productions and a company that includes popular actors like Ivan Trojan, Lenka Krobotová, Klára Melíšková, Martin Myšička, and Václav Neužil, first opened its doors on October 14, 1992, and gained professional status a year later. The theater has received numerous accolades, including multiple “Theater of the Year” awards, and its productions and performers consistently earn nominations for prestigious Czech theater prizes.
A Capacity Increase and Modernized Facilities
The 72.4 million Czech koruna (approximately $3.1 million USD as of February 16, 2026) renovation project focuses on expanding the theater’s capacity and upgrading its facilities. A key element of the reconstruction involves an extension into the courtyard, which will increase the seating in the auditorium from 150 to 200 seats. This expansion is intended to address the theater’s consistent sell-out crowds, making more tickets available to audiences eager to experience its productions. The theater is often fully booked immediately after a new monthly program is announced, highlighting the demand for its performances.
Beyond the increased seating, the renovations encompass improvements to backstage areas, technological equipment, and the ventilation system. These upgrades aim to enhance both the audience experience and the working conditions for the theater’s performers and crew.
Temporary Home at Galaxie
Since September of last year, Dejvické divadlo has been operating out of the Galaxie building in Prague 11 even as the renovations are underway. The Galaxie space isn’t solely occupied by Dejvické divadlo; it also serves as a venue for Divadlo Minor, the DanceConnected dance company, and the Prague Conservatory (DAMU). This shared arrangement allows multiple performing arts groups to continue operating during periods of facility upgrades or transitions.
According to Deputy Mayor Prokop, Dejvické divadlo has a contract to remain at the Galaxie through the end of 2026. While the theater anticipates holding some trial performances in the renovated space this fall, a full return to the Prague 6 location is planned for the new year.
A History of Innovation
Dejvické divadlo has a rich history rooted in alternative and puppet theater. The theater originated as part of the cultural organization of Prague 6 in 1992, under the leadership of Eva Měřičková and dramaturg Eva Suková. Its first production, a student staging of Matěj Kopecký’s Johannes doktor Faust, showcased the talents of a burgeoning ensemble of actors from the Academy of Performing Arts (DAMU). Jan Borny, their pedagogue and director, became the theater’s first artistic director in 1993.
Early productions included works by Jakub Krofta, Arnošt Goldflam, and Richard Weiner, establishing a reputation for bold and experimental theater. The 1995 production of J.A. Pitínský’s Sestra Úzkost, based on texts by Jan Čep and Jakub Deml, earned the theater the prestigious Radok Award for “Production of the Year” and the title of “Theater of the Year.”
Looking Ahead
The return to Prague 6 represents a significant milestone for Dejvické divadlo, promising an enhanced experience for audiences and a renewed creative environment for its artists. While the temporary arrangement at Galaxie has allowed the theater to continue its programming, the completion of the renovations will allow it to fully realize its potential as a leading cultural institution in Prague. The theater anticipates announcing a schedule of trial performances in the renovated space in the coming months, with a full return to regular programming planned for early 2027.
For updates on the renovation progress and the theater’s performance schedule, visit the Dejvické divadlo website.
