South Bohemian Theatre launches concert series and faces venue challenges

The South Bohemian Theatre and the South Bohemian Museum in České Budějovice are launching a new chamber concert series titled ‘Jihočeská matiné’. This series will combine musical programs with visits to museum exhibitions. The inaugural concert, ‘Český melodram’, is scheduled for October 3 and will feature works by Zdeněk Fibich, Marek Pavlíček, and Zdeněk Zahradník, alongside pieces by local composers such as Vojtěch Jírovec and Rudolf Kende.

Separately, the South Bohemian Theatre is undergoing significant structural changes. Director Martina Schlegelová announced that the theatre will transition to a new legal form by 2026, moving away from its current status as a municipal contributory organization to allow for more diverse management and modern organizational control.

The institution is also facing challenges regarding performance spaces. After leaving the Metropol cultural center due to deteriorating conditions and lack of investment, the theatre is seeking new venues. While the recently renovated Slavie House offers a small hall, Schlegelová noted it lacks the necessary backstage infrastructure for large-scale productions, though it may serve the opera ensemble's concert activities.