Theatre bill poster for a spiritual theatre performance

State Jewish Theater

State Jewish Theater Bucharest: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

The State Jewish Theater in Bucharest (Teatrul Evreiesc de Stat) is a living monument to Jewish cultural heritage and resilience, standing as one of Europe’s last professional Yiddish-language theaters. Located in the heart of Romania’s capital, this institution offers a unique cultural experience through compelling performances, historical architecture, and a rich legacy that dates back to the 19th century. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a theater lover, or a cultural traveler, the State Jewish Theater provides a window into the vibrant past and present of Jewish life in Bucharest. This guide covers everything you need to know: from history and cultural significance to visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and nearby attractions.

For further details, see the RomaniaTourism website and the State Jewish Theater official website.

Literary session at Barașeum State Jewish Theater in Bucharest, 1943

Scene from the play Evreica din Toledo at the State Jewish Theater in Bucharest with actors Tricy Abramovici, Albert Kitzl, and Carol Marcovici

Actors Tricy Abramovici and Albert Kitzl in Evreica din Toledo play at Teatrul Evreiesc de Stat București

Historical Overview
Cultural and Social Significance
Visiting Information
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Safety and Health Considerations
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion & Call to Action
References

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Jewish Theater

Jewish theater in Romania traces its roots to the 19th century, with the first Jewish theater founded in Iași in the 1870s. This movement was part of a wider Eastern European trend, using Yiddish performances to express Jewish identity and culture. Bucharest, initially a Sephardic community, saw an influx of Ashkenazi Jews, eventually making up a significant portion of the city’s population and cultural life (History of Bucharest).

Wartime and Postwar Resilience

The current State Jewish Theater was established in Bucharest in 1940, during a period of rising anti-Semitism and Nazi-aligned persecution. Despite restrictions, including a ban on Yiddish performances, the theater continued operations during World War II, providing a rare refuge for Jewish artists (RomaniaTourism.com). In 1948, the theater became a state institution, surviving Communist censorship and urban redevelopment, and serving as a sanctuary during the 1989 revolution (Times of Israel).

Crisis and Revival

A major crisis struck in 2014 when the theater’s roof collapsed due to heavy snowfall. The troupe continued performances outdoors, sustaining public interest and support. Restoration efforts led to the theater’s reopening in 2016, marked by Romania’s first international Yiddish theater festival (Times of Israel).

Contemporary Role

Today, under the direction of Maia Morgenstern, the State Jewish Theater is a vibrant institution hosting a diverse repertoire that ranges from classic Yiddish plays to contemporary works. It continues to serve as a platform for Jewish culture and intercultural dialogue (RomaniaTourism.com).

The State Jewish Theater is a symbol of Jewish cultural identity and resilience in Romania. It preserves Yiddish language, Jewish folklore, and collective memory through its performances. The theater promotes intercultural dialogue by involving non-Jewish performers and offering translations, fostering tolerance and understanding (JGuide Europe).

The theater also plays a vital educational role, hosting workshops, lectures, and commemorative events such as Holocaust Remembrance Day. Its archives are featured in the Museum of the History and Culture of the Jewish Community in Bucharest (RomaniaTourism.com), keeping the memory and legacy of Jewish life in Romania alive.

Visiting Information

Location and Accessibility

Address: Strada Dr. Iuliu Barasch 15, Bucharest, Romania
Public Transport: Close to Piața Unirii metro station (10–15 minute walk), with bus and tram stops nearby.
Accessibility: The theater is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated seating. Notify staff in advance for special assistance.

Visiting Hours

Box Office: Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00–19:00
Performance Days: Box office opens two hours before the show; performances typically begin at 7:00 PM.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment; see the official website for details.

Ticketing and Pricing

Online: Tickets available via the official website
On-site: Box office at the main entrance
By Phone: (+4) 021 323.39.70
Prices: 30–70 RON (approx. €6–14), with discounts for students, seniors, and groups

Performance Schedule and Language

Season: September through July, with occasional summer events
Languages: Performances are primarily in Romanian, with select shows in Yiddish (often with Romanian or English subtitles). Some productions may include Hebrew.
Translations: Check in advance for subtitle availability when booking tickets.

Facilities and Visitor Services

Auditorium: Seats about 250, with classical décor and excellent acoustics (mail.romaniatourism.com)
Cloakroom: Staffed for coats and bags
Refreshments: Light refreshments available in the foyer
Dress Code: Smart casual is suitable. Business casual/semi-formal for gala events

Special Events and Educational Programs

International Yiddish Theater Festival: Annual event in late May (teatrul-evreiesc.com.ro)
Jewish Theater Days: Week-long celebration with premieres and workshops
Holocaust Remembrance Events: Thematic plays and panel discussions
Children’s Theater Series: Family-friendly programming
Educational Workshops: For schools and universities; inquire for scheduling

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring these historic sites in Bucharest’s Jewish quarter:

Choral Temple (Templul Coral): Strada Sfânta Vineri 9, Bucharest’s largest active synagogue
Jewish Museum: Housed in the Great Synagogue at Strada Mamulari 3
Sinagoga Yeshoah Tova: Strada Tache Ionescu 9
Piața Unirii: Central square, a hub for shopping and dining

For a walking tour of the former Jewish quarter, see Unknown Bucharest.

Travel Tips

Book tickets in advance, especially for festivals and weekends
Check performance language and subtitle availability
Arrive 20–30 minutes early for smooth entry and seating
Respect local customs—the theater honors Jewish heritage
Combine your visit with nearby cafés and restaurants
Stay updated by visiting teatrul-evreiesc.com.ro and romaniatourism.com

Safety and Health Considerations

As of June 2025, the theater meets modern safety standards following recent renovations. Hygiene protocols are observed, with hand sanitizers available. Check the official website for current guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the State Jewish Theater visiting hours?
A: The box office is open Tuesday to Sunday, 12:00–19:00. Check the schedule online for performance times.

Q: How can I buy State Jewish Theater tickets?
A: Purchase tickets online, at the box office, or by phone.

Q: Is the theater wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes. The theater is equipped with ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated seating. Notify staff in advance if you need assistance.

Q: Are performances translated?
A: Many Yiddish and Hebrew performances include Romanian or English subtitles. Check availability when booking.

Q: What other attractions are nearby?
A: The Choral Temple, Jewish Museum, Sinagoga Yeshoah Tova, and Piața Unirii are all within walking distance.

Conclusion & Call to Action

The State Jewish Theater Bucharest is more than a cultural venue—it is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the enduring spirit of Romania’s Jewish community. Its diverse programming, accessible facilities, and vibrant history make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to understand Bucharest’s cultural tapestry.