November 20, 1983: National Theatre opens New Stage

The historic building of the National Theatre and the New Stage|Photo: Khalil Baalbaki, Czech Radio

The New Stage of the Czech National Theatre opened to the public on November 20, 1983 with a performance of Josef Kajetán Tyl’s The Strakonice Bagpiper.

Karel Prager|Photo: National Gallery Prague

The Brutalist-style building was designed by architect Karel Prager, who is also responsible for what is now the New Building of the National Museum, formerly the Federal Parliament.

New Building of the National Museum, formerly the Federal Parliament|Photo: Jan Malý

The massive glass cube, which is placed right next to the neo-Renaissance National Theatre, has always sharply divided public opinion, with many people criticising it for lacking respect for its environment.

The New Stage of the Czech National Theatre in contrast with the historic National Theater building|Photo: Radomíra Sedláková, 'Karel Prager: Lidé si na nové věci teprve musí zvyknout'/Titanic

The building houses a theatre hall for 400 people. The thick façade, made of glass blocks designed by artist Stanislav Libenský, isolates the New Stage from the bustle of the busy street below.

The greatest gem is its unique marble spiral staircase that leads to the foyer. In addition, the building offers a beautiful view of the entire Národní Street.