Polish Theatre in Bielsko-Biała

The Polish Theatre in Bielsko-Biała, founded in 1890, is housed in a historic building at 1 Maja Street in the city center. Designed by Viennese architect Emil von Förster, the building combines eclectic, neoclassical, and neobaroque styles, featuring a distinctive Roman triumphal arch motif on its facade. Adorned with sculptures of Apollo and the Muses, the edifice resembles the Vienna Opera House and the National Theatre in Budapest. After numerous renovations, including those in 1904–1905 and a major refurbishment in 2008, the theatre gained modern amenities such as a revolving stage and air conditioning. The theatre boasts a rich history dating back to the second half of the 19th century, when the first stage was established on the initiative of Prince Franciszek Sułkowski. In 1890, it opened its doors as the Municipal Theatre, primarily offering German-language performances. After World War II, the Polish theatre was revived and gradually gained recognition, partly thanks to the establishment of the Polish Theatre Society in 1921. The venue has hosted numerous significant productions and amateur activities. Since 1945, the Polish Theatre has undertaken many initiatives despite financial challenges, and since 2013, under the direction of Witold Mazurkiewicz, it has introduced innovative performances, including those addressing social and historical themes. In recent years, the theatre has also launched the "Barrier-Free Performances" series, making theatre accessible to blind and deaf audiences. Notable actors associated with the theatre include Jadwiga Grygierczyk, Anna Guzik, and Michał Czaderna. The Polish Theatre not only cultivates artistic traditions but also actively contributes to the development of local culture through numerous premieres, collaborations with professional artists, and an innovative approach to theatrical art.