Osvobozené divadlo

Osvobozené divadlo (The Liberated Theatre) is one of the legends of Czech theatre and a major cultural phenomenon of the 20th century. Founded in 1926 as part of the avant-garde Devětsil movement, it quickly became a symbol of modern satire, music, and freedom. On its stage, Jiří Voskovec and Jan Werich, together with musical genius Jaroslav Ježek, created unforgettable productions such as Vest Pocket Revue, Caesar, and Ballad of the Ragman. The theatre was fearless in its satirical commentary on politics and society, which brought it huge popularity but also a ban in 1938. After the emigration of Voskovec and Ježek, Werich continued the tradition in Prague’s Divadlo ABC, which became the spiritual successor of Osvobozené divadlo and kept its unique style alive. Critics described it as a “laboratory of humor and freedom”, while audiences loved it as a space where sharp satire met music that became part of everyday life. Today, Osvobozené divadlo remains a lasting symbol of courage, humor, and inspiration.