Curtain and bow: open-air theatres in Hungary that call for applause

A more perfect location for the Open-Air Theatre in Zsámbék, which has been opening its doors to the public every summer since 1995, could not have been imagined than the Zichy Castle and the estate belonging to it. The complex, known since 2005 as the Theatre and Art Basis of Zsámbék, has grown up to meet the needs of the 21st century in all respects. In addition to the covered areas - which provide an ideal space for culture even in cooler weather - 6 locations (Cultural House, Ruin Church, Baroque Parish Church, Turkish Fountain, Monastery Garden, Baroque Castle) host various summer performances. The Open-Air Theatre of Zsámbék "complicates our lives" in only one aspect: it is difficult to choose from the many good performances. The annual calendar of events usually includes general art programmes, literary evenings, concerts and fine art exhibitions, moreover, the organizers always think of the littlest ones, so children can also taste the joy of outdoor theatre.
 

The Castle Theatre of Kőszeg, founded in 1982, initially only played historical dramas by Hungarian authors. However, the difficult themes did not fit the summer's euphoria of freedom, so the repertoire was updated 6 years later. Since then, we can see mainly light, entertaining performances in the theatre, but the programme also includes opera and operetta genres, and classical music concerts are also held regularly. Of course, that is not all: lovers of street theatre productions will find their account here, just as fans of dance performances and folklore.

The Open-air Theatre of Siófok, built in 1949, is home to the beautiful Jókai Park, within arm's reach of the cooling waves. The largest and most modern outdoor theatre of the Balaton can accommodate 1,576 spectators. It is interesting that Hungarian Television broadcast the famous Dance Song Festival from here for a long time.
 

The repertoire is almost as colourful as the summer itself: classical plays, classical and pop music concerts, as well as operetta and dance theatre performances are regularly held in the theatre.

The triumphal journey of the Open-air Theatre in Debrecen, located next to the Békás lake in Nagyerdő, began in 1950, precisely with Zoltán Kodály's performance Székelyfonó. Fortunately, Debrecen moved with the times, so the theatre was completely renovated in 2014, and its auditorium for 1,017 persons has attracted more than 100,000 visitors since its reopening.

In addition to the classical theatre performances many family programmes are held and an open-air cinema also operates. Such a large event space is also suitable for holding special events, it is no coincidence that the area of ​​the Open-air Theatre in Debrecen hosted the Bartók Béla Choir Competition and Folklore Festival, the International Military Band Festival, the Wine and Jazz Days of Debrecen, and certain programmes of the Flower Carnival of Debrecen several times.