About the ensemble
DRAK Theatre from Hradec Králové is one of the most important Czech puppet theatres with a rich history dating back to 1958. It was originally founded as the East Bohemian Puppet Theatre and in 1968 it adopted the name DRAK, an acronym for Children's Radio and Author's Theatre in Hradec Králové. The theatre became famous for its innovative approach to puppet theatre, combining traditional techniques with modern elements and emphasising the visual and musical component of its productions. Its repertoire includes performances for children and adults, often with a deep philosophical subtext. DRAK Theatre is also known for its international activities and collaboration with artists from all over the world.
About the show
One of the latest productions of DRAK Theatre is the puppet fairy tale "The Devil's Grandmother", which premiered on 22 February 2025 in the Studio of DRAK Theatre. The show is inspired by the lesser-known Brothers Grimm fairy tale "The Devil and His Grandmother" and tells the story of three deserting soldiers who, to escape punishment, make a pact with the devil. He promises them seven years of carefree life, after which they are to go to hell. The only chance of salvation is to guess three riddles. Fortunately, the devil's grandmother comes to their rescue and helps them outwit Mephisto himself.
The production is intended for children aged three and up and combines traditional puppet theatre with live music and set design. It is directed by Marek Bečka from the ensemble Buchty a loutky, dramaturgy is provided by Barbora Kamenická Pokorná, stage design by Radka Mizerová and music composed by Marek Doubrava.
"The Devil's Grandmother" was performed as part of the DRAK Theatre's programme and is planned to be included in the repertoire for the 2025 season. The show has been positively received by audiences and critics, who appreciate its playfulness, exaggeration and ability to appeal to both children and adults.
With this production, the DRAK Theatre once again returns to classic fairy tale titles, which it processes in an original and modern way, thus maintaining its position among the top puppet theatres in the Czech Republic and abroad.
