About Us

On the history of the Black Theatre

The cradle of the black theatre was, according to the legends, the period of the reign of the Emperor Vang – pang in Ancient China. The legend says that “the Emperor, whose son has passed away, has been accordingly very sad and getting over his son’s death with the greatest difficulty”.

However, there was a certain Mr. Mang –ti among the court magicians of that time. He was able to remind the Emperor of his dead son using the so called black cabinet (the theatre); the contrast of black and white color as well as bright and dark light itself. He could soothe the Emperor’s grief with the help of the illusions created during his performances.

The next journey of this art was then from China to Europe. The principle of the Black Theatre, which has constantly developed and improved, has been used by many artists, illusionists, conjurors and magicians during their performances.

Since this technique had settled in the Czech Republic, it has been developing for more than half century. Here during the 1980’s, it impressed the artist, painter and scenographer Jan Pajer – the founder of the ANIMATO Authorial Theatre. Thus he was offered, in the comparison with the two-dimensional canvas, a new dimension – depth and space. The peculiar features of his theatrical work are the inspirited three-dimensional stage props in contrast with flat lines or stage props used by different playwrights.

The ANIMATO Black Theatre’s twentieth season is currently following the typical black theatre tradition, which makes up integral element of the Czech culture. The Theatre has experienced countless domestic and foreign tours and has taken part in the socially prestigious events.

A limited team of playwrights and executives, which developed from a long-time mutual co-operation into the sound core of the troupe, is the pillar of the ANIMATO Theatre.

Since year 2000, the late baroque Palace SAVARIN , Na Příkopě Street 10, Prague 1, has been a constant stage of the ANIMATO Theatre. Intimate, but friendly room of the Theatre are situated directly in the centre of Prague just 100 meters from the Wenceslas Square.

Except the performances for children and adults, other social occasions as well as fashion shows and concerts take place in our newly reconstructed theatre hall.

We are looking forward to your visit !!!