Dramatic Theatre of Klaipeda

The Dramatic Theatre of Klaipeda, known locally as Klaipėdos dramos teatras, is a beacon of culture and history nestled in the heart of Klaipeda, Lithuania. This grand theatre, located at Teatro g. 2, has been a cornerstone of Lithuanian performing arts since its establishment, offering a rich tapestry of dramatic performances that have captivated audiences for decades.

The Origins of the Theatre

The roots of the Dramatic Theatre of Klaipeda can be traced back to 1935 when the shuttered Šiauliai Drama Theatre was relocated to Klaipeda. Initially named the Klaipeda State Theatre, it operated until the spring of 1939, when the Klaipeda Region was annexed. This early Lithuanian troupe, led by Juozas Stanulis, laid the foundation for what would become a thriving cultural institution.

Early Theatre Life

While the exact date of the first theatre establishment in Klaipeda remains unknown, historical city plans from the 18th century indicate the presence of a square-plan building near the castle moats and the Dane River, referred to as the Comedy House. Initially used for military purposes, this building eventually became a civic property, suggesting that the first theatre owner was the city magistrate. Some historians believe that the theatre in the Comedy House was operational from 1777, with performances by a Berlin theatre troupe following shortly after. The fate of this early theatre remains a mystery.

The Rise of a New Theatre

The end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th centuries saw the emergence of a new theatre era in Klaipeda. In 1803, merchant Vachsen converted an old battalion warehouse near the Dane River into a theatre. After his death in 1814, the building was sold and transformed into a residential house. The theatre scene experienced a revival in 1818 when German entrepreneur Ulbrich established a 200-seat theatre in a wooden temporary structure provided by a timber trading firm. By the end of that year, a new brick theatre was completed on the current site, funded by a shareholders' company initiated by merchants Rupel and Voitkovich. This two-story neoclassical building with a mansard roof stood as a testament to the city's cultural aspirations.

Challenges and Triumphs

The theatre faced significant challenges, including a devastating fire in 1854 that destroyed the building. However, merchant Mason rebuilt it in 1857, and parts of this structure still stand today. The theatre was closed during World War I but reopened in 1935 when the Šiauliai Theatre was relocated to Klaipeda. Despite facing resistance from local German nationalists, the Lithuanian troupe, under the guidance of directors like Boris Dauguvietis, Antanas Sutkus, and Romualdas Juknevičius, flourished and quickly gained a reputation for high artistic standards.

A New Era of Lithuanian Drama

During its early years in Klaipeda, the theatre overcame numerous obstacles, including opposition from the German community. Nevertheless, the Lithuanian troupe thrived, establishing a drama school in 1936. Despite the school's limited impact due to challenging conditions, the theatre continued to produce remarkable performances. The troupe, led by directors such as Dauguvietis, Sutkus, and Juknevičius, staged notable productions like H. Sudermann's Heimat, P. Vaičiūnas's Broken Oath, and Vydūnas's Storm. The theatre's reputation grew, and it was soon recognized as a significant cultural force, surpassing even the Kaunas State Theatre in terms of innovation and artistic excellence.

The Post-War Period and Beyond

Following World War II, the theatre underwent significant transformations. In 1945, the Klaipeda Musical Comedy Theatre was established, officially opening in 1946 with the premiere of K. Jurašūnas's musical play Eglė the Queen of Serpents. The theatre's repertoire included both drama and musical productions, with performances by a Russian troupe from 1946 to 1949. In 1949, the theatre was renamed the Klaipeda Musical Drama Theatre and, in 1951, became the Klaipeda Drama Theatre.

The Festival and Renovation

In recent years, the Dramatic Theatre of Klaipeda has continued to evolve. In 2017, the theatre launched the international theatre festival TheATRIUM, held annually in May and June. The festival showcases a diverse array of performances from Lithuania and abroad, further cementing the theatre's reputation as a cultural hub.

The theatre underwent extensive renovations starting in 2007 due to its deteriorating condition. The complex reconstruction project, completed with great care to preserve the historical facades, included the installation of new pile foundations and the construction of a modern extension. The theatre reopened in 2015, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, ensuring its continued role as a premier venue for dramatic arts.

Today, the Dramatic Theatre of Klaipeda stands as a symbol of resilience and artistic excellence. Its storied history, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a cultural landmark, reflects the enduring spirit of Lithuanian theatre. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a theatre lover, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to this iconic institution promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.