The Drama Club in Prague
Činoherní klub (The Drama Club) is a theatre at Ve Smečkách 26, Prague 1, near Wenceslas Square. Founded in 1965, it is known for contemporary, actor-driven productions and for reflecting social and political changes through its repertoire. It has been a significant part of Prague’s cultural life, nurturing generations of Czech actors and providing a space for artistic and political dialogue.
For information and bookings, visit the official Činoherní klub website or Colosseum Ticket.
(Visiting Činoherní klub: History, Tickets, and Prague’s Historic Theatre Experience, Drama Club Prague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Its Role in Czech Cultural History)
History
Činoherní klub was founded in 1965 within the State Theatre Studio by director Miloš Hercík, with artistic direction led by Ladislav Smoček and Jaroslav Vostrý, both DAMU alumni. Their aim was to break from theatrical conventions and focus on contemporary, actor-driven work. The first performance, Smoček’s “Piknik,” premiered on February 27, 1965.
The theatre’s home at Ve Smečkách 26 was originally commissioned by the Czech Women’s Club in 1931. The building was designed by Milada Petříková-Pavlíková, the first Czech female engineer and architect. Initially a social and cultural hub, it was repurposed as a theatre venue during WWII and became Činoherní klub’s permanent home in 1964/65.
The theatre became a center for the Czech New Wave and nurtured actors including Josef Abrhám and Libuše Šafránková. During the Velvet Revolution of 1989, it was a founding site of the Civic Forum and played a role in Czechoslovakia’s peaceful transition from communism.
Its history is covered in publications including Činoherní klub 1965–2005 and Činoherní klub 2005–2015. (Činoherní klub – official site; Činoherní klub Prague: Your Complete Visitor Guide; Colosseum Ticket)
What to see and experience
The repertoire ranges from Czech and Russian classics to British and American contemporary works, including plays by Ibsen and Tennessee Williams. Productions have included “Heda Gablerová – naostro,” “Ošklivec,” “Kočka na rozpálené plechové střeše,” and “Tramvaj do stanice Touha.” (Colosseum Ticket – program)
The 2025 season features special exhibitions and a commemorative calendar. (Činoherní klub – calendar 2025) The theatre also occasionally offers backstage tours, exhibitions, and special events; announcements are available on the official website and social media.
The theatre is known for its intimate auditorium and sightlines. (GoOut)
Practical visiting information
Box office and performance times
- Box office Monday–Friday, 15:00–19:30; Saturday–Sunday, 18:00–19:30, when performances are scheduled.
- When the theatre is not performing or is on tour, the box office closes at 18:00.
- Performances Most shows start at 19:00 or 19:30. Check the official schedule for current information. (Činoherní klub)
Tickets
Tickets can be bought online through the Činoherní klub website, Colosseum Ticket or Colosseum Ticket, or in person at the box office.
Typical prices are listed as 250–600 CZK and 300–600 CZK. Discounts are available for students and seniors, and one listing also notes group discounts. Advance booking is recommended, especially for popular shows.
Accessibility and facilities
The venue is described as wheelchair accessible, with designated seating and assistance available on request. Another description notes that the historic building has some accessibility limitations. Contact the theatre or box office in advance about wheelchair access and specific needs. (Prague Experience, Činoherní klub)
Facilities include a café, Wi-Fi, and a cloakroom.
Činoherní kavárna (Drama Club Café): Monday–Friday, 12:00–00:00; Saturday–Sunday, 17:00–00:00. Reservations: +420 602 451 380.
Getting there
Address: Ve Smečkách 26, Prague 1. The theatre is centrally located near Wenceslas Square. (GoOut)
- Metro Muzeum (Lines A/C), about a 5-minute walk; or Můstek (Lines A/B), also about a 5-minute walk.
- Tram Václavské náměstí stop.
- On foot About a 10-minute walk from Old Town; also a short walk from city centre hotels.
- Taxi or ride-share Widely available; specify “Činoherní klub, Ve Smečkách 26.”
Tips
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early.
- Most shows are in Czech; check whether English surtitles are available. (GoOut)
- Smart-casual dress is recommended, but there is no strict dress code.
- Comfortable shoes are recommended.
- Check accessibility and language details in advance and book popular performances early.
Nearby places
Wenceslas Square and the National Museum are nearby. Old Town is also within walking distance, and the area has many cafés and restaurants. The theatre can be part of an outing that includes a performance, nearby attractions, or a visit to the Drama Club Café.
FAQ
What are the box office hours?
Monday–Friday, 15:00–19:30; Saturday–Sunday, 18:00–19:30 when performances are scheduled. When the theatre is not performing or is on tour, the box office closes at 18:00.
How can I buy tickets?
Online through the official website or Colosseum Ticket, or in person at the box office.
Is the theatre wheelchair accessible?
It is described as wheelchair accessible, with designated seating and assistance available on request; the historic building also has some accessibility limitations. Contact the theatre in advance.
Are guided tours available?
Backstage tours are offered occasionally. Check the official website for updates.
How do I get there?
The theatre is near Wenceslas Square, close to the Muzeum and Můstek metro stations and the Václavské náměstí tram stop. (Činoherní klub Prague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Essential Tourist Information)
For further visitor information, see Činoherní klub Official Site and Colosseum Ticket.
