The Summer Theatre is an open-air performance venue located in the central part of the Sea Garden. Widely known among the residents of Varna as the Summer Theatre, it is one of the key venues of the city’s cultural life.
The theatre is situated in the central area of the Sea Garden, in close proximity to the Alley of the Renaissance. Since its construction in 1957, the Summer Theatre has served as an open-air stage for theatrical and opera performances. The venue also hosts numerous national and international festivals and cultural events.
Historical Reference
The idea of a summer theatre stage in Varna has deep historical roots. Shortly after the Liberation, a small wooden stage with approximately one hundred seats arranged in several rows was built on the site of today’s “Nicolaus Copernicus” Astronomical Observatory. This was the city’s first summer theatre, where local and visiting artists regularly performed.
In 1955, construction of a new, modern-for-its-time summer theatre began, based on a design by architect Zhechko Cholakov (1926–1999). Once again, a site within the Sea Garden was selected. The facility was completed within two years. A wide circular stage was formed, with its northern part designed as an arcade, which today is covered with dense deciduous climbing vegetation. The southern part is occupied by spectator seating arranged on two levels, located at ground level and on a broad terrace.
Architecture
The main entrance façade is designed as a massive wall adorned with monumental sculptural reliefs, rich in political-propaganda and cultural symbolism. The entrances are recessed at both ends of the façade. The theatre’s design emphasizes the combination of functional space and sculptural form, reflecting the architectural tendencies of the period.
Function and Cultural Role
The theatre has a total seating capacity of 2,200. The space beneath and behind the stage is used for the needs of actors and theatre staff, including dressing rooms, makeup rooms, and other supporting facilities. The theatre offers excellent acoustics and, during the summer season, serves as a venue for international festivals and competitions, such as the “Varna Summer” Festival, among others.
Contacts:
Tel.: +359 52 647 781
www.palaceofvarna.com
