Severočeské divadlo opery a baletu Theatre building

Severočeské divadlo opery a baletu, located in Lidice Square in the heart of Ústí nad Labem, is a cultural monument with a rich history. This Neo-Baroque Art Nouveau style building was built at the end of the 19th century as a symbol of growing urban wealth and cultural life. Since 1909 there is a professional theatre company that offers capacity for 800 people.

The history of the theatre dates back to 1818, when the first amateur theatre company was founded. During the 19th century, German games were mainly played, reflecting the national composition of the population. At the end of the 19th century, it was decided to build its own theatre building as a sign of urban development. In 1899 the land was allocated for the construction and founded the Association for the Construction of the Theatre, which was quickly financed thanks to the gifts of local associations and industrialists. The architectural competition was won by the Viennese architect Alexander Graf, whose design was implemented despite exceeding the originally estimated costs of more than 400,000 Austrian crowns.

The theatre building is characterized by its four-storey rectangular shape and a strongly indented facade in the spirit of the Neobarok with elements of Art Nouveau. The main front side is decorated with round risalite, portics and statues of amoretes. During its existence the theatre underwent several changes in operation and organization. After professionalization in 1909, various events took place here, such as the appeal of the first director Maria Pospischilová in 1913 or the agreement on the number of Czech performances for the season thanks to F. Šrak in 1924.

Between 1923 and 1924 the theatre experienced a deficit which led to the rental of the building by the city. After occupying the city of the Nazis, workers of Czech and Jewish origin were removed. In 1944 the theatre was closed due to a lack of money, but after the end of World War II it was opened again. It has undergone several changes in the name and organisation over the years before it was renamed Severočeské divadlo opery a baletu in 2004.

The theatre building has been reconstructed several times. The first modifications took place in the 1930s, when there was a new lighting and district heating system. In 1967 a major reconstruction was carried out with technical modifications and restaurants. Further modernization took place in 1984- 1996, when theatre technologies were improved and other restaurants were carried out.

Today, Severočeské divadlo opery a baletu is actively operated by a limited liability company. The building, which was built as a symbol of urban development, is worth visiting today with its history and architectural beauty. The theatre offers not only cultural entertainment, but also a reminder of the rich past of Ústí nad Labem.

Severočeské divadlo opery a baletu is more than just a building - it is a living witness to the history of the city and its cultural development. It offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in a rich past and enjoy contemporary art performances in a unique space.