November 20, 1983: National Theatre opens New Stage
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.
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.
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 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.
