Ján Palárik’s Theatre
The heart of the cultural life of Trnava and its surroundings has for almost two centuries been the Ján Palárik Theatre located directly at the Trinity Square. The theatre building was built by the town in 1831 at its own expense, while the inhabitants of the town themselves were not left behind and contributed to the construction. The unique building is considered to be the only one of its kind in Slovakia
Across the decades the theatre has undergone several rebuildings and reconstructions. In 1907, it was an Art Nouveau renovation, which replaced the simple Empire-style facade with a Neo-Baroque facade with Art Nouveau details. At the same time, the representative Mirror Hall - Pannonia was built. One of the last reconstructions took place in 1960 which left interesting stained glass windows on the ground floor that cannot be overlooked. The initially professional theatre was after its extinction replaced by amateurs, thanks to which the theatre continued to live. Subsequently, a touring theatre for children and youth was formed. It was not until 1990 that this theatre was renamed the Trnava Theatre, and finally in 2001 it was named after a significant Slovak playwright Ján Palárik, who contributed to its development. At present, the theatre combines history with progressive dramaturgy and cultural and social life.
The theatre maintains the message of the Slovak and world´s classics, but also brings valuable and provocative contemporary world production, often performed as premiere in Slovakia. It is opened to visitors of all ages from Trnava and the nearby region, but its offer exceeds the borders of Trnava region. The theatre continues to seek new impulses and establishes collaborations with top local and foreign artists. Every month it brings a rich selection of theatre performances (local and hosting), which is supplemented by a varied off-theatre programme: creative workshops, open door day, talk show In front of the curtain, theatre tours and many more.
The Ján Palárik Theatre has become a part of the cultural identity of Trnava and with its programme it fulfills the function of a modern cultural institution of the 21st century. At present, in the lounge of the historical building of the Ján Palárik Theatre you can also find the theatre café Bezkydov open all day, whose name is inspired by the pseudonym of Ján Palárik, but also refers to the philosophy of the café concept - "without" "gossip". The concept is also based on nature protection and therefore you will not find plastic straws or PET bottles here, and you would look in vain for artificial food colourings in the assortment. Bezkydov connects the past with the present and also thinks about the future, so even if you are not a theater performance lover, do not miss a visit to this unique café, which will enchant you with its atmosphere.
