Městské divadlo Mladá Boleslav Theatre building

Městské divadlo Mladá Boleslav, located in Palacký street of the village Mladá Boleslav II, is a professional theatre institution with a rich history dating back to the middle of the 19th century. This monument to Art Nouveau architecture was built in 1909 on the initiative of local theatre actors who have played in the halls of taverns and town hall since then. Today it offers two scenes for various types of artistic performances and plays an important role in the cultural life of the region.

The history of the theatre dates back to the 19th century when the first amateur theatre associations began to appear in Mladá Bloslav. The first Czech play took place on April 8, 1843 with the production of "Žižkov's sword" by Václav Kliment Klicpery. Although only German theatre performances were allowed by the authorities at the time, the supporters continued their activities and played various games in local pubs. In 1909 the contemporary Art Nouveau building of the theatre was built on the initiative of these volunteers, whose operation was festively launched on 21 November by the "Lucerna" Alois Jiráska.

The architecture of the theatre building is an example of Art Nouveau, a style characteristic for the beginning of the 20th century. During the years, a general reconstruction took place, during which a second alternative scene was created. This modernization has enabled the possibility to expand for the performances.

The ownership and management of the theatre has changed several times over the years. Since 1945 there has been a professional art ensemble in the Municipal Theatre Mladá Byslav, which was formed from the foundations after the division of the Central Bohemian Theatre. Between 1966 and 1994, the theatre was merged with the Kladen Theatre under the name Jaroslav Trachy Theatre, which led to a general reconstruction of the building. Since 1994 it has been a separate city theatre.

The key events in the history of the theatre include the ceremonial start of the operation of the contemporary Art Nouveau building, the start of the activities of a professional art ensemble and the demolishing of the theatre after the merger period. The theatre has a high attendance rate of more than 90%, suggesting its popularity among locals and foreigners. Some of the most important productions, such as "Men in Offside" by Karel Poláček and Molière's play "Scapin's Gallows," were filmed and broadcast by Czech TV.

Today, Městské divadlo Mladá Boleslav is not only the cultural centre of the city, but also an important place to develop young talents. Each season, the theatre presents approximately six prime ministers and hosts sets of professional theatres from Prague, Kladno and other Czech cities. Its high attendance and involvement of artists shows its importance for the cultural life of the region.

Městské divadlo Mladá Boleslav is therefore not only a monument to architecture, but also a living centre of artistic creation and culture. Its history and current activity attract visitors from all over the region, which makes the theatre worth visiting for anyone interested in Czech cultural history and contemporary art.