The repair of the Janáček Theatre in Brno has been completed, costing 770 million

Brno – The overall renovation of the largest theater building in the country, the Janáček Theater in Brno, was completed with the opening of the small park and terraces around the rear entrance. It cost almost 770 million crowns. There still remains the task of finding a new use for the former restaurant Bohéma. The next major investment by the city into culture will likely be a new concert hall for the philharmonic orchestra. This was stated to journalists by Mayor Markéta Vaňková (ODS). The theater has about 1100 seats for the audience, but it is mainly distinguished by its spacious and technically well-equipped stage, which is one of the largest in Europe. For example, the turntable has a diameter of 17.5 meters.

The heritage-protected Janáček Theater, when viewed from the outside as well as from the inside, has approached the appearance it had after its completion in 1965. The builders tried to preserve or restore all original elements, including artistic works, small decorative elements, and furniture.

The renovation started in 2017. It was carried out in several stages, with craftsmen gradually progressing from the entrance foyer to the rehearsal rooms, changing rooms, storage areas, and other background spaces. A new evening box office and customer center with an entrance from Roosevelt Street were created. "The renovated Janáček Theater is the technically best-equipped theater scene for presenting operas and ballets in our country," stated the director of the National Theater Brno, Martin Glaser.

During the renovation, builders encountered a number of unforeseen circumstances. For instance, they found asbestos that had previously been used for fire insulation. Another problem was the structural defect of the load-bearing constructions or the poor condition of the roof in areas that were not originally planned for repair. Contrary to expectations, the concrete floors were also in worse condition.

Previously, stage technologies or the piazzetta in front of the theater with water features had been repaired. The stone cladding of the theater was also replaced. However, the noble stone blocks are already damaged in many places, especially on the terrace facing the park on Koliště. The blocks were likely damaged by skateboarders or parkour athletes who were bouncing off the walls while performing acrobatic tricks.

Concerns about vandalism will likely lead to the closure of the rear terrace during the night hours. The architect is expected to propose a tasteful grille that will close after the audience leaves the performance, Glaser stated.