The reconstruction of Jirásek's theater in Česká Lípa will cost 197 million CZK

Česká Lípa - The reconstruction of Jiráskův Theatre in Česká Lípa is set to begin in November. Including extensions, interior furnishings, and theatrical technology, the estimated cost will be 197 million Czech crowns. The building no longer meets current needs, and the city aims to acquire a modern cultural venue suitable for hosting various types of cultural events. The last event before the reconstruction will be the theatre showcase Česká Lípa Theatre Autumn this October, after which the theatre will close for two theatre seasons. At today’s presentation of the project, the director of the culture organization Kultura Česká Lípa, Tereza Vraná, stated this.

Jiráskův Theatre was established in the 1930s by converting a municipal gymnasium built in 1907. The building has poor ventilation and structural integrity. Discussions about its reconstruction have been ongoing in the city for 20 years. The city originally considered building a new theatre building, but it was unsuccessful in securing funding for a project costing 300 to 400 million Czech crowns. There was also consideration of moving the theatre to the Crystal cultural center. Ultimately, the city returned to the idea of reconstructing the Jiráskův Theatre building. The work is expected to finish in the summer of 2022, with a new theatre season set to begin in the autumn of that year.

"I am pleased that we did not abandon the plan for the reconstruction of Jiráskův Theatre and continued where the efforts of previous city administrations left off. I am convinced that this is a good project, and we have done significant work to bring it to fruition. Česká Lípa is a cultural city full of active people who deserve a new theatre," said the mayor of Česká Lípa, Jitka Volfová (ANO), during the project presentation today.

The design for the reconstruction was proposed by the studio of architect Adam Rujbr. It includes relocating the main entrance of the theatre to Panská Street, with the current entrance from Jiráskovy Street serving as a service entry. Modifications are also planned for the courtyard accessible from Jiráskovy Street. Panská and Jiráskovy Streets will be connected by a passageway, eliminating the need to walk around the building. In addition to the main hall, the theatre will feature two lounges and a foyer with a mobile bar that can be used for club theatre performances and intimate concerts. The entire facility will be fully accessible.

"The theatre has several entrances, which will allow certain areas, such as the café or small hall, to operate independently," said architect Adam Rujbr. The history of the theatre dates back to the Baroque period. "Thanks to the reconstruction, some original elements, such as vaulted or beam ceilings, will be cleaned up. This will help us preserve the spirit of the place," he added. The project also includes the use of the original large chandelier. The most significant change will be to the auditorium, which will be steeper, providing better visibility from the seats, which will also be more comfortable according to Rujbr. The balcony will have a second row, which will slightly increase the seating capacity of the auditorium.