Stefan Jaracza Theatre

Teatr im. Stefana Jaracza is the oldest theatrical stage in Łódź, operating continuously for over 130 years. It is a public institution with a rich tradition of Polish theatre, presenting a dramatic repertoire with performances on three stages in the city centre.

History and tradition

The theatre was established in 1888 under the name Teatr Victoria. Its first director was Aleksander Zelwerowicz, who held the position from 1908 to 1911 and made Łódź the first city in the Kingdom to stage plays by Stanisław Wyspiański – The Curse and The Wedding. The initiator of the theatre's founding was Łucjan Kościelecki. Since 1949 the theatre has borne its current name, commemorating the outstanding director Stefan Jaracza, whose creative work was an important chapter in the history of Polish theatre.

Stages and repertoire

The theatre has three stages: the Large (Main), Small and Chamber stages, on which dramatic works are presented. In addition to stages in the main building, the theatre runs several regional stages in Łódź Voivodeship, extending access to theatre beyond the city centre. The extensive repertoire includes world classics, contemporary dramas and experimental productions, reflecting both tradition and contemporary artistic challenges.

Management and contemporary activity

From September 2025 the theatre is run by Paweł Łysak. Previously the position was held by Małgorzata Kowalska (temporary director from December 2024), and before her Michał Chorosiński (until August 2024). The theatre remains a living cultural institution, serving as an important meeting place for enthusiasts of dramatic and operatic art in Łódź.

Cultural neighbourhood

Teatr im. Jaracza is located in Śródmieście [city centre], in the vicinity of other important cultural institutions in Łódź. The theatre's proximity to the Museum of Art and other cultural facilities makes this district one of the city's main cultural hubs, attracting a steadily growing number of visitors interested in art and theatre.

Practical information

• Address: ul. Kilińskiego 45, Śródmieście, 90-257 Łódź
• Box office: Monday–Saturday 12:00–19:00, plus 2 hours before Sunday and public holiday performances
• Office – PR Department: Monday–Friday 8:00–16:00
• Getting there: guarded car park approximately 5 minutes walk from the theatre (ul. Gabriela Narutowicza), public transport stops: 'Jaracza-Kilińskiego' or 'Kilińskiego-Narutowicza'
• Contact: +48 42 662 33 00, sekretariat@teatrjaracza.pl, https://teatrjaracza.pl
• What to expect: dramatic performances, a tradition spanning over 130 years, access to classical and contemporary repertoire, three stages in the main building