Kecskemét Katona József National Theatre
Few people know that Kecskemét is regarded as the cradle of professional Hungarian theatre. It was the birthplace of László Kelemen, founder and director of Hungary's first professional theatre company, established in 1790. The troupe gave one of its earliest performances in the courtyard of a local inn.
From the early 19th century onwards, theatrical performances became a regular part of the city's cultural life. In 1826, József Katona—author of Hungary's national drama Bánk bán and then serving as Kecskemét's Chief Prosecutor—proposed that the city should have a permanent theatre.
His vision was realised seventy years later when, in 1896, Hungary's Millennium year, Kecskemét's magnificent theatre was completed. Designed by the renowned Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, the building is a fine example of Neo-Baroque Eclecticism and bears a striking resemblance to Budapest's Vígszínház (Comedy Theatre), also designed by the same architectural partnership.
The façade is adorned with busts of József Katona and Károly Kisfaludy, two of Hungary's most celebrated playwrights. The theatre opened with a gala performance of Bánk bán, starring two of the country's greatest actresses, Mari Jászai and Emília Márkus.
Described by the poet Gyula Juhász as a "jewel box", the beautifully preserved theatre has also served as a filming location for several internationally acclaimed productions, including scenes from Mephisto, The Phantom of the Opera and Being Julia.
In recognition of its outstanding artistic achievements and decades of excellence, the theatre was granted the prestigious title of National Theatre in 2019.
From the early 19th century onwards, theatrical performances became a regular part of the city's cultural life. In 1826, József Katona—author of Hungary's national drama Bánk bán and then serving as Kecskemét's Chief Prosecutor—proposed that the city should have a permanent theatre.
His vision was realised seventy years later when, in 1896, Hungary's Millennium year, Kecskemét's magnificent theatre was completed. Designed by the renowned Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, the building is a fine example of Neo-Baroque Eclecticism and bears a striking resemblance to Budapest's Vígszínház (Comedy Theatre), also designed by the same architectural partnership.
The façade is adorned with busts of József Katona and Károly Kisfaludy, two of Hungary's most celebrated playwrights. The theatre opened with a gala performance of Bánk bán, starring two of the country's greatest actresses, Mari Jászai and Emília Márkus.
Described by the poet Gyula Juhász as a "jewel box", the beautifully preserved theatre has also served as a filming location for several internationally acclaimed productions, including scenes from Mephisto, The Phantom of the Opera and Being Julia.
In recognition of its outstanding artistic achievements and decades of excellence, the theatre was granted the prestigious title of National Theatre in 2019.
Additional Performance Venues
Kelemen László Chamber Theatre
6000 Kecskemét, Rákóczi út 15.
Ruszt József Studio Theatre
6000 Kecskemét, Katona József tér 10.
Nearby Attractions
Statue of József Katona
Katona József Memorial House
Hungarian Museum of Photography
Holy Trinity Column
The City Hall
National Flag Memorial
St. Nicholas Parish Church (Friars’ Church - Franciscan Church)
Kodály Institute
Recommended themes
In the footsteps of József Katona
József Katona
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6000 Kecskemét Katona József tér 5. Route planner
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Address: 6000 Kecskemét, Katona József tér 5
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