Karlín Music Theatre
After the State Opera, the Karlín Music Theatre is Prague’s second biggest theatre with a capacity of almost 1,000 seats. The pseudo-Baroque building is situated on the outskirts of the Karlín district next to Florenc metro station and Prague’s main bus station. It was built in 1881; however, the building was used for circus and variety performances at that time. Even the world famous actor, Charlie Chaplin, performed at the theatre at the beginning of his career. It was not until 1932 that the original table facilities were replaced by classic theatre seats. Over the years, several ensembles performed in the theatre, including the Prague Provisional Theatre – the ensemble of the National Theatre which was closed during the German occupation. The historical building of the theatre was destroyed by a devastating flood in 2002 and reconstructed at the cost of 630 million crowns. Today, the theatre repertoire consists mainly of musicals and operettas.
Useful information for visitors
Public transport connections
Pernerova bus stop
Opening hours and admission
For up-to-date information about the programme of the Karlín Music Theatre, visit the official website. For information about the opening hours of the ticket office where tickets can be purchased, click here. For information on seating, go here.
Dress Code
A visit to the Karlín Music Theatre is perceived as a social event that requires visitors to follow a certain dress code, although it is not as strict as when visiting the National Theatre. The ideal choice is a cocktail dress or a skirt suit for ladies and a dark suit for gentlemen. Less formal clothes, such as a shirt, are also tolerated. Jeans, T-shirts, sweatshirts and street clothes are inappropriate.
Interesting facts about Karlín Music Theatre
The Karlín Music Theatre’s repertoire includes the most successful Czech and foreign musicals. For example, the American musical “Carmen” by a trio of authors – Frank Wildhorn, Jack Murphy and Norman Allen – had its premiere there in October 2008. The premiere of “Aida”, a musical by Elton John and Tim Rice, followed four years later.
Visitors to the Karlín Music Theatre can refresh themselves at the theatre café and Theatro Cafe & Restaurant.
