Colonel Švec | Perform Czech

A historic episode from 1918 was the subject of a play that became a hit at the National Theatre a decade later and, in 1938, the tale of Czechoslovak Legionnaires in Russia was adapted for the stage yet again. But how does the true story of Colonel Josef Jiří Švec, adapted by playwright Rudolf Medek, face up to the other ‘fateful eight’ years of Czechoslovak history?

This current rendition of the heroic legionnaire play, which inspired fierce dispute and political struggle in its day, draws on multimedia and documentary theatre to bring home the fate of protagonist and play alike.

The audience will not only be reminded of the history of the Legions, who had a significant impact on the founding of Czechoslovakia, but will also be presented with other possible scenarios of historical development. Expect an atmosphere at once celebratory, cautionary and ironic.

About the company

The National Theatre’s Drama Ensemble is the largest company of its kind in the Czech Republic. In our programming, we strive to include works of the classical and contemporary Czech and international repertoires, as well as original projects and Czech premieres. Our productions are visually compelling and exquisitely staged. We produce eight new productions a year, while also pursuing a host of accompanying activities, including educational programmes and the international festival Prague Crossroads.