Jerzy Szaniawski Drama Theatre in Wałbrzych

The Jerzy Szaniawski Drama Theatre in Wałbrzych is a cultural institution with roots dating back to 1957. It was established as a municipal theatre and officially opened in 1964 with the premiere of Aleksander Fredro's *The Revenge*. Over the years, the theatre has undergone numerous transformations, and its history is rich with various challenges and achievements. Initially, the acting troupe was modest, and the repertoire was somewhat haphazard, which affected the quality of the performances. It was only under the leadership of Bronisław Orlicz, who served as director from 1960, that the theatre began staging new productions, which enhanced its reputation. In the following years, leadership changed frequently, which did not contribute to stability. Among its most notable achievements are numerous awards at national and international festivals, such as *Złamany szlaban* and the Audience Award at the Festival of Directing Art. The theatre has also gained recognition in local circles, receiving the titles "Meritorious for the City of Wałbrzych" and "Meritorious for Polish Culture." Distinguished actors who have collaborated with the theatre include Piotr Tokarz, Rafał Kosowski, and Irena Sierakowska. The current repertoire includes a variety of performances, and the theatre remains open to new initiatives, collaborating with numerous directors. Architecturally, the theatre adapts to changing needs by modernizing its spaces. Today, it primarily attracts a young audience, reflecting its evolution and ability to adapt to contemporary viewers' tastes. An interesting fact is that in 1992, young people made up as much as 60% of the audience, demonstrating the theatre's growing appeal among younger generations. Actors and creators from Wałbrzych have been repeatedly awarded, confirming the high quality of their work. The Jerzy Szaniawski Drama Theatre in Wałbrzych remains an important venue on Poland's cultural map, blending a rich history with modern trends in theatre.