Mary Stuart

Political thriller / Heads or tails? / Two queens and one crown / Power as a disease / Power as a prison / A war with no winner / Mary vs. Elizabeth / Finish her!

Two women, two sides of the same coin. Both victims of a male conspiracy. Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots, has fled her country after being accused of murdering her husband. In England, she seeks political asylum and hopes for protection from her relative, Queen Elizabeth. But Elizabeth fears Mary’s legitimate claim to the English throne and has her imprisoned. A political game full of intrigue, lies, and demagogy begins. A game of thrones that can have no true winner. Where is the line between politics and personal integrity? In war, the rules no longer apply – and no victor is without guilt.

Awards

Jantar Award, Production of the Year, ProJantar Ltd., 2025
Thalia Award nomination, Magdaléna Holcová for the title role in the production Mary Stuart, Actors’ Association, 2024
Mark Ravenhill Award, nomination for Best Contemporary Play Production, independent jury, 2025

About the company

The Petr Bezruč Theatre is one of the most artistically distinctive theatre ensembles in the Czech Republic, as evidenced by its consistent ranking at the top of prestigious theatre polls.

Its primary audience consists of young viewers, particularly high school and university students. However, the theatre is also popular with middle-aged and older generations. The Bezruči company emphasises contemporary theatre, creative diversity, and innovation, regularly collaborating with leading Czech directors known for their strong artistic voice.

The theatre focuses on original dramaturgy, including modern interpretations of classical works, discovering and creating space for new dramatic texts, stage adaptations of compelling or “cult” literary and film works, and plays with regional themes.

Another major strength lies in its well-coordinated and highly acclaimed ensemble of actors.

In addition to performances on its home stage, the Petr Bezruč Theatre presents its productions annually at prestigious festivals across the Czech Republic. In 2024, the theatre was awarded the prestigious title Theatre of the Year.