The Prague City Hall will repair the Vinohrady Theatre, investing 75 million into the reconstruction

Prague - The Prague City Hall will finance the reconstruction of the Vinohrady Theatre, investing 75 million crowns in the first phase of repairs. This was approved by the councilors at today's meeting. Builders are to reconstruct the theatre building, technical parts, and also build a rehearsal room for 150 to 200 spectators. The Vinohrady Theatre was built in 1907 and has never been completely renovated. According to last year's estimate, the total repairs will cost approximately 2.7 billion crowns. The theatre is a contributory organization of the capital city.

Preparation for the reconstruction began about six years ago, during which the theatre signed contracts with project designers, among others. Now the city will enter into these contracts and take over all responsibility for the reconstruction. According to a previous statement by Deputy Mayor for Culture Jiří Pospíšil (TOP 09), Prague wants to obtain funding from the state as well, with the city hall currently in negotiations about it.

The builders will reconstruct the historic theatre building, including upgrading theatre technology and expanding the capacity of the underground part behind the theatre with a rehearsal room that will also serve as a chamber stage with a capacity of 150 to 200 spectators. They will also carry out construction adjustments to the storage facilities both in the theatre building and in the warehouse and workshop premises on Korunní Street.

"This is a key document that takes control, oversight, and the course of the reconstruction of Vinohrady Theatre under the supervision of the Prague City Hall. It is such a large investment that it should not be handled by the employees and officials of the theatre, as a contributory organization, but the city hall should be responsible for it," said Pospíšil. "We also plan to select a contractor for the construction, and the entire construction process will also be overseen by a city hall official," he added.

The reason for the repairs and expansion of the theatre spaces is the poor technical condition of the building. The stage from 1926, designed by František Křižík, has never been reconstructed. Its repair should last two years. In addition to the stage, it is necessary to repair the electrical installation, restrooms, and also the decorations, including frescoes and facades. According to earlier statements from the city hall, the theatre company should maintain its activities during the reconstruction.

The Art Nouveau building at Peace Square was constructed between 1905 and 1907 according to the design of architect Alois Čenský. The theatre was opened on November 24, 1907, and the first performance was Jaroslav Vrchlický's play Godiva.