Created to rival Europe’s most majestic theatres, this ostentatious building is a delightful place to sit back and enjoy a play or opera.
The Juliusz Słowacki Theater has been a big part of the city's theatrical scene since its founding toward the end of the 19th century. The venue is a large white palatial-looking building that was modeled on the Paris Opera House. Book tickets for a theatrical performance, which could be a contemporary play, a Shakespearean tragedy, a comedy or an opera.
The theater is named after Juliusz Słowacki, a Polish Romantic poet, and attracts some of Poland's best actors, playwrights and directors.
Before venturing into the auditorium, it is worth looking over the grand façades. The building was designed by architect Jan Zawiejski who combined neo-Gothic and neo-Baroque styles. Determined to bring his own personal touch, however, Zawiejski added dark stone gargoyles. These figures leer down at you from their perches in front of the domed roof.
Go through the entrance and into the spacious foyer where the walls are adorned with mirrors and tapestries and crystal chandeliers bathe you in light. Walk up the sprawling marble staircases and take your seat for the evening’s performance.
Get there a few minutes before the start of the entertainment so you can appreciate the décor, such as the attractive designs that adorn the panels of the balcony tiers. Study the evangelical portrayal of tragedy, comedy, music and dance on the stage curtain. The work was created by Henryk Siemiradzki, a Polish painter who worked predominantly in the 19th century.
To learn more about the performance schedule during your planned stay in the city, visit the venue’s official website, where you can also book tickets for performances. In addition to the main stage, there are also smaller ones and a poetry salon.
The Juliusz Słowacki Theater is located just south of the city center, a 10-minute walk from Main Market Square. As you leave the opulent building at night, turn around to see it illuminated by soft light.
