The famous Spirála Theatre, located at the Prague Exhibition Centre (Výstaviště Praha) in Holešovice, is reopening its doors for the first time in over 20 years, now under the new name Nová Spirála. The multi-genre venue has undergone extensive renovations and will host a variety of performances, including theatre, musicals, modern circus, opera, sports and light shows, and video mapping. The circular auditorium, equipped with two rotating telescopic stages, provides 800 spectators with a 360° view, ensuring there are no obstructed seats.
The building’s history is marked by the catastrophic flooding in 2002, which forced the theatre to close. In the years following, the theatre even faced the threat of demolition, but the iconic steel structure was ultimately preserved. During the recent renovation, the entire infrastructure was modernised, including upgrades to the water and electricity systems as well as fire protection measures. A smaller stage, with seating for 340 people in an intimate club-like atmosphere, was also added. The theatre’s modern stage technology now complements the restoration of its historic acoustics, maintaining the building’s listed status.
Tomáš Hübl, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Výstaviště Praha, expressed the emotional importance of the project: “It fills me with great joy and nostalgia to announce our first programme in over twenty years. I am eager to welcome audiences back to this unique space.”
The Great Hall is divided into four sectors, each accessible via spiral ramps, ensuring an excellent view from every seat, whether in the stalls or galleries. With its state-of-the-art stage and versatile spaces, Nová Spirála is poised to host a wide range of cultural and commercial events. The theatre also collaborates with various artistic groups and will be available for commercial projects.
The original Spirála Theatre was opened in 1991 as part of the General Czechoslovak Exhibition (Všeobecná československá výstava) in Prague. It was based on the conversion of a circular cinema from the 1970s. The building’s distinctive half-timbered dome, designed by Prof. Ing. F. Lederer, remains a central architectural feature to this day.
Nová Spirála is set to become a new hub for culture and entertainment in Prague.
