Перший Український Театр Для Дітей Та Юнацтва

Visiting Перший Український Театр Для Дітей Та Юнацтва: Tickets, Hours, and Tips in Lviv

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of Lviv’s historic center, the First Ukrainian Theatre for Children and Youth (Перший Український Театр Для Дітей Та Юнацтва) is a pioneering institution dedicated to nurturing young audiences and inspiring creativity through the performing arts. As one of the world’s earliest professional theatres dedicated exclusively to children and youth, it has played a foundational role in Ukrainian theatrical tradition, education, and cultural resilience. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the theatre’s history, visiting hours, ticketing, repertoire, accessibility, and practical tips—ensuring an enriching experience whether you are a local resident, tourist, or educator.

For more details, refer to nashteatr.lviv.ua, pershyi.com, and lviv.travel.

Historical Overview
- Origins and Founding (1920–1944)
- Relocation to Lviv and Postwar Revival (1944–1950s)
Visiting Essentials
Repertoire and Artistic Highlights
Architectural and Cultural Significance
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Practical Tips
Conclusion and Call to Action

Historical Overview

Origins and Founding (1920–1944)

Founded in March 1920 in Kharkiv as the “Theatre of Fairy Tales” (Театр казки), this institution was established by decree of the Theatre Education Department of the People’s Commissariat for Education. It officially opened on March 21, 1921, becoming one of the world’s first professional theatres exclusively for young audiences (nashteatr.lviv.ua, pershyi.com).

The founding team included notable Ukrainian artists and intellectuals such as O. Biletsky, I. Dunaievsky, and B. Kosarev, with creative input from the legendary Les Kurbas and his pupils (lviv-tourist.info). The theatre’s early mission combined classic fairy tales with educational and socially relevant works, setting a standard of artistic excellence and innovation.

Relocation to Lviv and Postwar Revival (1944–1950s)

World War II interrupted the theatre’s activities, but after Soviet reoccupation in 1944, the theatre relocated to 11 Hnatyuka Street in Lviv. The building, featuring constructivist architecture, previously served as a city park stage and later a Jewish theatre, reconstructed in 1938–1939 by architects Vladyslav Bleim and Daniel Kalmus (lviv.travel). This move established the theatre as a vital part of Lviv’s postwar cultural revival and the first of its kind in Western Ukraine (lviv-tourist.info).

Visiting Essentials

Location and Directions

Address: 11 Hnatyuka Street, Lviv, Ukraine
How to Get There: The theatre is centrally located, easily accessible by tram, bus, taxi, or a short walk from Lviv’s main landmarks. The main railway station is approximately 2.5 km away.

Visiting Hours

Tuesday–Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Monday: Closed

Note: Showtimes may vary for special events or holidays. Always check the official schedule online before your visit.

Ticketing and Reservations

Ticket Prices: Typically range from 50–150 UAH for standard performances. Special events and premieres may cost more.
Where to Buy: Tickets are available online via Internet-Bilet, Karabas, and Kontramarka.ua, or at the theatre’s box office.
Discounts: Available for students, families, school groups, and group bookings.

Guided Tours and Special Events

The theatre regularly offers guided tours that delve into its history, architecture, and backstage operations. Seasonal festivals, interactive workshops, and community events are held throughout the year, especially during school holidays and citywide celebrations.

Accessibility

The theatre is fully accessible, featuring step-free entrances, ramps, designated wheelchair seating, and restrooms for visitors with mobility needs. Adapted performances for children with sensory or physical disabilities are offered (lviv.dityvmisti.ua).

Repertoire and Artistic Highlights

The theatre’s repertoire spans Ukrainian and international fairy tales, contemporary socially relevant dramas, and innovative projects such as the “Open Stage,” which welcomes guest directors and artists from Ukraine and abroad (pershyi.com). Notable recent productions include “Thumbelina+,” “Oliver Twist,” “The Star Boy,” “Beautiful Карпати,” “Крила ангела,” and “The Hobbit, or There and Back Again.” Regular programming fosters emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and cross-generational dialogue.

Architectural and Cultural Significance

The constructivist building offers a distinctive spatial experience, guiding visitors through a courtyard to the auditorium. Its heritage reflects Lviv’s multicultural past—from a 19th-century city park to a Jewish theatre and now a modern Ukrainian cultural landmark (lviv.travel).

Nearby Attractions

Combine your theatre visit with a tour of Lviv’s famed historical and cultural sites, all within walking distance:

Market Square (Ploshcha Rynok): UNESCO World Heritage Site
Lviv National Opera House
Armenian Cathedral
Potocki Palace
Numerous cafes, family-friendly restaurants, and parks

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours of the First Ukrainian Theatre for Children and Youth?
A: Tuesday to Sunday, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Purchase tickets online via Internet-Bilet, Karabas, Kontramarka.ua, or at the box office.

Q: Is the theatre accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, it offers step-free access, wheelchair seating, accessible restrooms, and adapted performances.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, guided tours and educational workshops are available. Book in advance via the official website.

Q: Are performances suitable for non-Ukrainian speakers?
A: Many shows use visual storytelling or minimal dialogue, making them accessible to non-Ukrainian speakers. Always check performance details before booking.

Q: What are the nearby attractions?
A: Market Square, Lviv Opera, Potocki Palace, Armenian Cathedral, and more.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Arrive Early: Arrive 20–30 minutes before showtime for ticket collection and seating.
Check Language and Age Suitability: Some performances are tailored for specific age groups or language abilities.
Observe Theatre Etiquette: Dress neatly, silence phones, and avoid photography or food inside the auditorium.
Safety: The theatre follows strict safety and hygiene protocols, including emergency procedures and nearby air raid shelters (Visit Ukraine).
Combine with Sightseeing: Enhance your cultural experience by exploring Lviv’s historical district before or after your visit.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The First Ukrainian Theatre for Children and Youth is more than a performance venue—it is a living testament to a century of Ukrainian theatrical innovation, education, and social engagement. With its diverse programming, architectural charm, and inclusive environment, it stands as one of Lviv’s must-visit cultural treasures.

Plan your visit in advance by booking tickets online, following the theatre on social media, and downloading the Audiala app for the latest updates and exclusive content. Embrace the opportunity to experience the vibrancy of Ukrainian arts in one of Europe’s most captivating cities.