Entertainment

Entertainment in Prague is extremely varied and still comparatively cheap compared to other European capitals. From nightclubs and discos to rock concerts, classical and traditional Czech music venues, dance halls, theatres and cinemas galore - whatever the visitor requires, there is plenty of it in Prague.

The Czech Republic has a massive cultural heritage and this is reflected in the number of halls, theatres and other venues used for concerts, recitals, opera, ballet, plays and other events. Prague's main theatre is the National Theatre, built in the late 19th century. Opera and ballet are performed here as well as at the Stavovske Divaldo (Theatre of the Estates) and the Statni Opera Praha (State Opera House). There are regular classical concerts and recitals held in a variety of venues from the National Museum and Smetana Hall (Smetanova Síň) of the Municipal House, to the Dvorak Hall of the Rudolfinum and the halls of the Liechtenstein Palace.

Churches also play a prominent role in bringing music to the people with frequent recitals at lunchtime and in the evenings. The Prague Spring Music Festival commences around May 12 (the anniversary of Smetana's death) each year and lasts for some three weeks, attracting top artists from all over the world.

For centuries the Czechs have been renowned for their ingenuity and originality, which again is reflected in the number of specialised theatre groups and theatrical displays which are around. Perhaps the most famous of these are the Black Light Theatre, the National Marionette Theatre and the Image Theatre as well as the magic lantern shows at the Nova Scena (an extension to the National). It must be said that some of these productions are blatantly aimed at the tourist market but nevertheless they provide an insight into the traditions of Czech mime and puppet theatre.

There are several theatres (some with productions in English) that put on plays by the most famous of playwrights from Shakespeare to Vaclav Havel - the Czech President. Even if a play is in Czech, several theatres now have translation facilities available - but it is wise to check prior to booking.

The press provides regular and up-to-date listings of all concerts and theatre productions: the Prague Post (the main English language newspaper in Prague), has an excellent section each week devoted to entertainment listings. In addition, there are a number of weekly guides which also provide information. There are several specialised ticket agencies where you can obtain tickets for all shows and at most 3-star hotels and upwards, tickets can be bought from reception.

The Czech film industry is thriving, with many Western films now being shot in the Czech Republic (Mission Impossible was shot in Prague). There is also a huge number of cinemas (kino) at which all types of film are shown. Most western films are shown in Czech with English subtitles. Films are advertised with large posters displayed on any available wall and outside the cinema itself will be a detailed listing of all films being shown in Prague cinemas.

Prague has a vibrant nightlife with many clubs and dance halls both in its centre and in the suburbs. It has now become a regular spot on the pop/rock concert circuit, with most major artists having performed in Prague at one time or another. The area around Wenceslas Square is the hub of club entertainment including places like the extremely popular Lucerna on Vodickova.

The Czechs have a reputation for a love of jazz, and there are several excellent jazz clubs in the area. The most famous but perhaps not the best is the Reduta on Narodni where Presidents Havel and Clinton once performed. It is advisable to book ahead, particularly if a popular musician is playing. During the summer months, a number of jazz bands can be found strolling the city's streets and squares, particularly around Charles Bridge and Old Town Square.

Gays and lesbians are well catered for in Prague: since the fall of Communism and the rise in tourism, a number of clubs and venues have become established and the culture is now widely accepted. There are several newspapers which give listings of venues and the Prague Post runs a regular gay feature. There has been a corresponding increase in the number of gentlemen's clubs which provide escort services for both gay and straight people.

Over the last few years there has been an increase in the number of casinos in Prague, although the visitor must be wary that some casinos can also mean arcades containing one-armed bandits, especially in the centre of Prague. For a casino in the true sense of the word, where one can play roulette and card games, there are listings in most newspapers and other guides. Several hotels have casinos including the Hilton Atrium, the Ambassador and the Jalta.