Closed for 20 years, Prague's renovated Spiral Theatre reopens this week

After more than 20 years since its closure due to devastating floods in 2002, Prague's iconic Spiral Theatre, rebranded as Nová Spirála (New Spiral), is set to reopen its doors this week. Located within Prague’s Výstaviště Exhibition Grounds, the unique venue has undergone an extensive renovation over the course of the past two decades.

The Nová Spirála boasts a unique circular auditorium with a 360-degree view, accommodating 800 spectators. Its two rotating stages allow for versatile performances, ensuring that no audience member misses any action.

The venue is designed for maximum interaction, with artists performing directly among the audience. For smaller events, there’s also a more intimate stage with a capacity of 340 spectators.

A fresh start with exciting shows

The highlight of the reopening will be the aptly-titled multimedia show Resurrection (Vzkříšení), which features performances of pop hits from artists like Madonna, Nirvana, and Adele. Resurrection will kick off the official reopening of Nová Spirála on Thursday, Oct. 3, with additional performances through December.

The show will also include tributes to the iconic musical Jesus Christ Superstar, which was memorably performed at the old Spiral Theatre throughout the 1990s. The new performance will utilize video mapping and acrobatic elements, enhancing the classic experience with new technology.

In addition to Resurrection, the inaugural program at Nová Spirála includes the theatrical production The Bridges of Madison County, a variety show titled The Saturn Revue, and performances by renowned tenor Pavel Černoch accompanied by the Janáček Philharmonic Orchestra.

Other planned events include TEDx talks and performances by international artists, including Japanese DJ Ryoji Ikeda.

A long-awaited revival

The Spiral Theatre was originally opened in 1991, and built upon an existing cylindrical hall at Výstaviště that dates back to the 1970s. After being devastated by the 2002 floods, the theater faced numerous threats of demolition over the past 20 years, with officials unsure of what to do with the structure until a renewed commitment to its renovation emerged.

Ultimately, Prague's city council invested over CZK 300 million in the renovation of the landmark building, preserving the original architectural elements while integrating modern technological advancements.

The renovation included comprehensive upgrades to electrical and HVAC systems, as well as the installation of state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, including a sophisticated video mapping system. The building now features a barrier-free design, ensuring accessibility for all visitors, including those with mobility challenges.

"I have told the story several times about how I began working at Výstaviště Praha at the former Spiral Theatre," Tomáš Hübl, now Chairman of the Board of Výstaviště Praha, states in a press release. "[Today] I am filled with immense joy and nostalgia."

"Personally, I cannot wait to sit down for the first performance and hear applause in a space where I once had no idea that I would someday have the great honor of leading everything here."