Madách Színház director Tamás Szirtes faces compensation controversy

Tamás Szirtes, the director of Madách Színház, has faced significant controversy following financial reports revealing his annual compensation reached over 123 million forints. This figure includes 22.56 million forints in wages, 8.16 million in premiums, and 92.096 million in creative and copyright fees. The director’s total compensation represents more than one-fifth of the theater’s entire performance fee budget.

Critics, including actor Károly Rékasi, have voiced opposition to the pay scale. Concerns have also been raised regarding the theater’s programming, noting that 86 percent of its 367 productions were directed or co-directed by the 81-year-old director, leaving little room for younger talents or external directors. The institution has not provided responses to inquiries regarding oversight mechanisms or creative contracts.