The exhibition The Velvet '89... a Revolution that Began in Theatres was organised to mark the 30th anniversary of the democratic change in our society, during which theatre artists became direct participants. Actors, actresses, directors, and dramaturges responded to the protests of the students, involved themselves in political events, and became one of the key groups that influenced the course of the most significant political and social events in former Czechoslovakia during the second half of the 20th century. Their stage experience helped them interpret the slogans and ideas of the period clearly at demonstrations and in discussions, and their widespread popularity lent their words weight. In the early days, actors and actresses replaced silent media and articulated the protesters' demands forcefully, clearly, and emotionally.

 

The exhibition Velvet '89... a Revolution That Began in Theatres reflects on the crucial days and weeks that led to the end of the communist dictatorship and the establishment of democracy in Czechoslovakia. The exhibition includes period materials and photographs from archives and theatres. The exhibition captures the atmosphere in the squares and the most significant events of that time, which, in many ways, foreshadowed the course of the revolutionary days of November.

 

Theatre Institute Bratislava © 2019

 

Exhibition redesign: The Slovak National Theatre © 2024