The reconstruction of the Vinohradské Theatre is likely to become more expensive due to higher prices

Prague – The planned reconstruction of the Vinohrady Theatre in Prague is estimated to cost 2.8 billion crowns, which represents an increase of about 300 million crowns compared to the original study. The reason is the rise in prices, and the final amount will be known only after the project is completed and the bidding for the contractor is finished. This information was revealed at today's meeting of the Culture Committee of the Prague City Council. Work could begin in the second half of next year. The theatre was opened in November 1907 and has never been completely renovated.

According to the theater's director, Tomáš Töpfer, the reconstruction will maintain the original form of the building. "Nothing will change on the building at all; even the audience won't notice that there is new technology," he said. In addition to the reconstruction of the historical building, a new stage and facilities will be created underground behind the theatre building on Římská Street. Access to the new stage should be through the historical building of the theatre. The stage technology will also undergo a complete renewal.

The work will still need to be approved by the city council, both due to the merging of the originally two projects for the repair of the building and the theatrical technology, and also due to the budget covering the increased cost. If everything goes well, the project documentation should be completed in December, and in January, a tender for the construction company would be announced.

The director added that he is in talks with the Prague Congress Centre about moving the theatre there during the reconstruction, starting from the 2023/2024 season. "That is the only space where we can fit at all," he said, adding that representatives of the centre are receptive to this and have offered sufficiently large spaces with both large and small halls. "They are also glad that we would enliven and fill the Congress Centre," he added.

The reason for the repairs and expansion of the theatre space is the poor technical condition of the building. The stage from 1926, designed by František Křižík, has never been renovated. The reconstruction of the stage alone is expected to take two years. In addition to the stage, electrical wiring, social facilities, and also decorations, including frescoes and the façade, need to be repaired.

The Art Nouveau building at Náměstí Míru was built 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.