The National Theatre Ivan Vazov is the greatest Bulgarian theatre. It is situated in the centre of the city, in the beautiful City`s Garden. The theatre was established in 1904 when "Sulza i smyah" ("Tears and Laughter") theatrical troupe changed its name to "Bulgarian National Theatre". Six years later the National Assembly voted to establish a fund to raise money for a new theatre building. It was designed by two prominent Viennese architects, H. Helmer and F. Felner. The building was officially opened on 3 January, 1907.

     Among its founders were the actors Vasil Kirkov, Adriana Boudevska, Krustyo Saraffov, еtc. In 1908 the prominent poet Pencho Slaveykov was appointed director. A substantial number of the troupe's actors were trained in Russia; many had studied in Central Europe. While special attention was always paid to the production of Bulgarian plays, the theatre's doors were always open for the best ones in European theatre. In 1923, during celebrations to mark the theatre's anniversary, a fire broke out on stage, quickly engulfing the whole building. The designs of German architect Martin Dulfer were used when the theatre was restored in 1929.

     Despite ideological constraints and attempts to impose the dogma of so-called socialist realism, after World War II many excellent productions were staged at the National Theatre, mostly of the classics. As a result of the political changes in Bulgaria many new links were established with other European theatres. The National's troupe took part in a number of theatre festivals, such as BITEF, the "New European Theatre" Biennial Festival in Bonn, and the NET festival in Moscow.

     Badly damaged in World War II and hastily restored after the war, the theatre underwent a lengthy but serious reconstruction between 1971 and 1975. Currently it has a well-equipped main stage and auditorium that can seat 750, and two smaller auditoriums that seat 120 and 70 viewers, respectively. It is a favourite place for many generations inhabitants of the city and is one of the most beautiful and representative buildings in Sofia. Its current poster includes 15 spectacular shows. The company members are the most famous theatre and film stars. The audience could attend mainly classical dramas and comedies. 
 

Address: 5, V. Levski Str. 
Tel: (+359 2) 988 28 84