The Jonáš Záborský Theatre in Prešov It is one of the leading cultural institutions in eastern Slovakia. Its history is intertwined with the town’s rich theatrical tradition, which dates back to the 17th century. Today, it offers audiences a varied repertoire of plays, musicals and theatrical performances, whilst also forming an important part of Prešov’s cultural life.
The professional theatre in Prešov was founded during the Second World War. The Slovak Theatre in Prešov was officially opened on 30 January 1944 in the refurbished Municipal Theatre building, now known as the DJZ Historic Building. The first production to premiere there was the play *Škriatok* by Ferko Urbánek. Ten years later, in 1954, the theatre was given its current name in honour of the Slovak playwright and writer Jonáš Záborský.
Two buildings, two theatres
Today, DJZ uses the historic building on Hlavná Street and the modern building on Námestí legionárov. Each offers a different atmosphere and different possibilities for theatrical productions.
The historic DJZ building is situated right in the centre of Prešov and provides an impressive setting for more intimate performances. Its history is closely linked to the beginnings of professional theatre in the city. The building has undergone extensive renovation work and remains one of Prešov’s most distinctive cultural landmarks to this day.
The new building on Legionnaires’ Square has been opened 14 September 1990. This was a significant moment in the history of theatre, as it marked the construction of the first purpose-built theatre in Slovakia during the history of Czechoslovakia. The centrepiece is the Main Stage, with a technically equipped stage that allows for the staging of even large-scale musical and theatrical productions.
From plays to musicals
The repertoire of the Jonáš Záborský Theatre has changed significantly over the decades. Although the theatre began primarily as a drama theatre, a separate ensemble specialising in musical theatre was established as early as 1948. Gradually, operettas, musicals and works from both Slovak and international repertoires began to appear on stage.
Today, the DJZ offers a wide range of performances, from classical plays and comedies to musicals and contemporary musical-theatrical projects. The programme also includes guest performances, concerts and other cultural events.
A theatre with its own tradition
A significant part of DJZ’s history is the staging of Slovak original plays. The theatre has long been dedicated to domestic drama and, since the late 1980s, has also hosted a festival of productions of original Slovak plays. Prešov has thus gradually established itself as one of the major centres of Slovak theatre life.
Throughout its history, DJZ has also performed on stages both at home and abroad. Its productions have been staged, for example, in Austria, Poland, Hungary, Germany, Switzerland and Italy. The theatre has thus represented Prešov and Slovak culture beyond its borders.
The current programme at the Jonáš Záborský Theatre
The DJZ’s repertoire changes regularly and features productions for a variety of audiences. The programme features classic literary works, contemporary plays, comedies, musicals and performances aimed at schools and younger audiences. The theatre also provides a venue for guest artists and various cultural events.
Current titles include, for example, The Tapákovs, A Mess of a Play, At Home, I’m the Darling!, Pride and Prejudice (more or less). The programme varies according to the current theatre season, so it is advisable to check the date and venue of the performance before you visit.
A tip for a cultural experience in Prešov
Jonáš Záborský Theatre It is the ideal place for visitors who wish to discover the cultural side of Prešov. With its two theatre buildings, diverse repertoire and a history stretching back more than eighty years, it offers more than just evening performances – it forms part of the city’s story and its cultural life.
If you’re looking for the theatre in Prešov, Whether you’re looking for a tip for an evening out or an interesting cultural event, DJZ offers a wealth of options throughout the theatre season. You can also combine a visit to a performance with a stroll through the historic city centre, as the historic theatre building is situated right on Hlavná Street.
Source: OOCR RŠ
Source of photographs: OOCR RŠ
Map
Information
The Jonáš Záborský Theatre has two venues in Prešov – the historic building at Hlavná 48 and the new building at Námestie legionárov 6. When choosing a performance, we therefore recommend checking the venue, as individual productions are staged in different locations.
The DJZ box office is located in the Historic Building on Hlavná Street and, during normal opening hours, is open Monday to Friday from 8.00 am to 6.00 pm. It also opens 30 minutes before the start of a performance. Tickets can also be purchased online.
One of the theatre’s advantages is its location – the historic building is situated right in the centre of Prešov, so a visit to a performance can be combined with a stroll down Hlavná Street, a visit to a café or dinner in the city centre.
DJZ is not just for regular theatre-goers. The programme also includes performances for schools, guest companies, concerts and other events. There is something for everyone – families, young audiences and visitors looking for an evening’s entertainment in Prešov.
If you’re planning a visit, it’s worth checking the current programme and booking your tickets in advance. Some performances have limited capacity or are only staged on a few dates.
