The Great Theatre's curtain was painted by the notable Czech artist August Bedřich Piepenhagen.
The theatre is named after Josef Kajetán Tyl, the playwright who authored the Czech national anthem.
The venue's interior features a notable foyer ceiling painting depicting the 'Triumph of Art'.
It remains one of the few regional theatres to operate two distinct, architecturally contrasting performance spaces.
The New Stage is integrated into a modern building structure, providing a stark contrast to the 1902 historical building.
The Josef Kajetán Tyl Theatre serves as the primary performing arts venue in Plzeň, hosting opera, ballet, drama, and musical performances. The building consists of two main stages: the historic Great Theatre, designed in a Neo-Renaissance style by Antonín Balšánek, and the contemporary New Stage. The Great Theatre opened in 1902 and is recognized for its elaborate interior decoration, including works by sculptor Ladislav Šaloun. It is the only theatre in the Czech Republic that maintains four distinct artistic ensembles under one roof. The facility is a vital cultural hub for the West Bohemian region. The Great Theatre is located in the city center, surrounded by historical parkland.
The main entrance facade of the Great Theatre facing Smetanovy sady park.
Book tickets in advance via the official website, as popular performances often sell out.
Check which of the two buildings (Great Theatre or New Stage) your performance is held at before arriving.
Arrive early to appreciate the historical architecture of the Great Theatre's interior lobby.
Do not confuse the historic Great Theatre building with the modern New Stage building when arriving for your show.
The theatre typically pauses regular programming during the mid-summer holiday period.
Formal or semi-formal attire is expected for evening performances; avoid wearing shorts or athletic shoes.
