Nowy Theater in Łódź

The New Theater named after Kazimierz Dejmek in Łódź, established in 1949, is one of the key cultural institutions in Poland. Its building, constructed in 1912 as the "Scala" Theater, has undergone numerous transformations and served various functions during World War II, including housing a German theater and a Jewish Theater. The New Theater inaugurated its activities with the premiere of the play "Grinder Karhan's Brigade," and its repertoire from the outset included both socialist realist works and later classics and contemporary dramas. Key figures in the theater's history include Kazimierz Dejmek, who managed it during several periods, as well as Wojciech Pilarski and Jerzy Hutek, who contributed to enriching the repertoire with new productions. The theater is known for its engagement with current social issues, a tradition continued by its current director, Dorota Ignatjew. Following a renovation between 1993 and 1998, the theater building offers modern facilities, including the Main Stage, which can accommodate 380 spectators, and the Small Stage with a more intimate atmosphere. The New Theater's archive, one of the largest in Poland, collects extensive materials documenting its activities and received funding in 2018 for the digitization of its resources. Interestingly, in 1999, the theater celebrated its 50th anniversary, and in 2019, it was awarded the Silver Medal for Merit to Culture "Gloria Artis" on the occasion of its 70th anniversary. Thus, the New Theater is not only a witness to history but also an active participant in contemporary culture, transforming its traditions into modern theatrical performances.