Ivan Vazov National Theatre
Sofia
The Ivan Vazov National Theatre, located in the heart of Sofia facing the City Garden, is Bulgaria's national theatre and the oldest and most authoritative theatrical institution in the country. Founded in 1904 by members of the Salza i Smyah company, it was originally named the National Theatre and later named after the celebrated Bulgarian writer Ivan Vazov. The theatre building, completed in 1906 and opened in 1907, was designed by renowned Viennese architects Hermann Helmer and Ferdinand Fellner in a neoclassical style. It features a main stage with 750 seats, a smaller 120-seat stage, and a 70-seat stage on the fourth floor. The theatre has hosted productions by distinguished directors such as Alexander Morfov, who has been chief director since 1993. The façade of the building is so emblematic that it appears on the Bulgarian 50 levs banknote. Throughout its history, the theatre has undergone several reconstructions due to fire damage in 1923 and bombing during World War II, with restorations in 1929, 1945, 1971-1975, and a significant restoration in 2006. The theatre also established a theatrical school in 1925, fostering Bulgarian theatrical arts. Its repertoire includes classic Bulgarian plays, including Ivan Vazov's "The Outcasts," the first play performed there, as well as works by European playwrights such as Strindberg, Ibsen, and Chekhov. The Ivan Vazov National Theatre remains a vibrant cultural hub and a must-visit attraction for lovers of theatre and Bulgarian culture.
Plan your trip to Bulgaria with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should check the official website for current program schedules and consider booking tickets in advance, especially for premiere performances. The theatre is best visited during the evening performances for an authentic experience. Discounts are often available for students and seniors. The theatre's central location in Sofia makes it easily accessible by public transport or on foot.
Interesting facts
- •The theatre's façade is featured on the Bulgarian 50 levs banknote issued in 1999 and 2006.
- •The original stage machinery installed in 1929 is still in use today, manufactured by German companies Krupp and MAN, highlighting the theatre's advanced technical heritage.
- •During the theatre's construction, students protested and booed Prince Ferdinand, leading to the temporary closure of Sofia University for six months.
- •The theatre was initially named after Krastyu Sarafov between 1952 and 1962 before adopting Ivan Vazov's name permanently.
- •The theatre hosts a main stage with 750 seats, a smaller 120-seat stage, and a 70-seat stage on the fourth floor, accommodating diverse productions.
History
The Ivan Vazov National Theatre was founded in 1904 and initially called the National Theatre.
Its neoclassical building was completed in 1906 and officially opened on January 3, 1907.
In 1923, a fire destroyed much of the theatre during an anniversary celebration, leading to reconstruction completed in 1929 by architect Martin Dülfer.
The building suffered damage again during World War II bombings but was restored in 1945.
Further renovations took place between 1971 and 1975, and a major restoration project was completed in 2006, preserving its historical and architectural integrity.
Place Guide
Main Stage1907
The primary performance area with 750 seats, known for its excellent acoustics and historic ambiance, hosting major theatrical productions.
Smaller Stage1907
A more intimate 120-seat stage used for experimental and smaller-scale performances, allowing closer audience interaction.
Fourth Floor Stage1971-1975
The smallest stage with 70 seats, located on the fourth floor, used for chamber theatre and avant-garde performances.
Theatre Facade1906
Neoclassical façade facing the City Garden, a symbol of Sofia and featured on the Bulgarian 50 levs banknote.
Contact
Phone: 02 811 9227
