As autumn arrives in the Czech Republic, the historic town of Kutná Hora comes alive with the Kutná Hora Performing Arts Festival (DFKH). Scheduled for September 18 to 20, 2025, this vibrant festival brings together theatre, performance, music, and community in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Organized by Divadlo X10, the 11th edition of DFKH invites art lovers to experience a mix of Czech and international performances in stunning Gothic and Baroque settings. With its focus on contemporary theatre, unique venues, and a welcoming atmosphere, the festival offers a special blend of creativity and connection.
A Festival Rooted in History and Innovation
Since its start in 2015, the Kutná Hora Performing Arts Festival has grown from a small showcase of independent Czech theatre to a major international event. Founded by Kryštof Koláček, manager of Divadlo X10, and theatre critic Vojtěch Varyš, the festival was created to bring bold, modern performances to Kutná Hora’s historic spaces. The idea was simple but powerful: use the town’s ancient buildings and public spaces as stages for new stories and ideas. Over the years, DFKH has stayed true to this vision, breathing fresh life into venues like the Municipal Tyl Theatre, Breüerovy Gardens, and even local garages and squares.
In 2024, the festival welcomed thousands of visitors who enjoyed a mix of thought-provoking plays, lively concerts, and interactive events. The 2025 edition promises to build on this success, with a program that highlights independent theatre from Poland, Germany, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. The festival’s focus on current social issues and innovative storytelling makes it a must-visit for anyone who loves art that challenges and inspires.
The Setting: Historic Venues and Open Spaces
Kutná Hora’s charm lies in its blend of history and beauty, and DFKH makes full use of this unique backdrop. Performances take place across the town, from the grand Municipal Tyl Theatre to a festival tent in Breüerovy Gardens. Smaller venues, like the Kutná Hora Library and public spaces under Vlašský dvůr, host discussions, sound installations, and concerts. In past years, events have also happened in the Synagogue, the former Brewery in Sedlec, and near iconic landmarks like the Ossuary and the Cathedral of the Assumption of Our Lady and Saint John the Baptist.
This mix of venues creates a festival that feels both intimate and grand. Visitors can wander through cobblestone streets, explore historic sites, and stumble upon performances in unexpected places. The open-air settings, like the festival tent in Breüerovy Gardens, offer a relaxed vibe where audiences can enjoy shows under the September sky.
A Diverse Lineup of Performances
The 2025 festival shines with its focus on contemporary theatre, especially from Poland’s independent scene. One highlight is Worst Case Scenario by Aleksandra Jakubczak, an autobiographical performance about living with chronic anxiety. This powerful show, set for September 18 at the Municipal Tyl Theatre, uses theatre to explore mental health and resilience. Another key performance is Seks, praca i marzenia by the all-female Polish theatre group Teraz Poliż, which dives into the dreams and struggles of those who fulfill others’ fantasies.
The festival opens with First Step by V.O.S.A. Theatre, a visually stunning show that blends new circus techniques with a pop-up planetarium. This performance, held on September 18 in Breüerovy Gardens, sets a magical tone for the weekend. Other notable acts include a Czech-German co-production, 120 volů/120 Ochsen, created by Divadlo X10 and Leipzig’s Schaubühne Lindenfels. This two-part show, directed by Eva Schubert and Ondřej Štefaňák, explores shared histories through bold storytelling.
Polish duo Turkowski & Nowacka will present a unique collaboration with JaWa, featuring a homeless man and a former prisoner searching for their place in the world. Meanwhile, the student group OLDstars will perform Emigrants by Sławomir Mrożek in a garage near Breüerovy Gardens, offering a fresh take on this classic play about displacement and identity.
Y: Celestial Gardens and Family-Friendly Events
A standout feature of DFKH is the Y: Celestial Gardens series, which blends visual art, performance, and music. Held in a festival tent under Vlašský dvůr, this series includes sound installations, concerts, and sensory experiences. On September 18, the series opens with TeririKlariri, a concert and art event that invites visitors to relax and immerse themselves in sound. The sound installation, open on September 19 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:15 p.m., is free and perfect for all ages, including children.
The festival also offers a family-friendly program, with activities designed for kids and parents. From interactive workshops to performances in the festival tent, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These events make DFKH a great outing for families looking to share in the arts.
Discussions and Industry Program
DFKH isn’t just about performances, it’s also a place for ideas and connection. The 2025 festival includes an industry program for theatre professionals, with discussions and networking events that spark new collaborations. On September 19, a roundtable talk at the Kutná Hora Library will explore sustainable theatre practices in Asia, part of the Continental Drift project. These sessions draw artists, directors, and producers from across Europe, making DFKH a hub for creative exchange.
For the public, the festival offers open discussions and workshops where audiences can meet artists and dive deeper into the themes of the performances. These events create a sense of community and make the festival feel welcoming and inclusive.
Planning Your Visit
Tickets for DFKH 2025 are affordable, ranging from 150 to 250 CZK (about 6 to 10 euros) per show, with some events free. Festival passes, priced at 1200 CZK (or 750 CZK for students), offer access to multiple performances. Tickets often sell out, so early booking is recommended. You can find the full program and buy tickets at www.divadlox10.cz/dfkh.
Kutná Hora is easy to reach by car or train from Prague, about an hour away. Visitors can stay in local guesthouses, hotels, or nearby campsites. The town’s historic center, with its cobblestone streets and landmarks like St. Barbara’s Church, is worth exploring before or after the festival. Local food vendors offer snacks, vegetarian options, and gluten-free meals, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Why DFKH 2025 Stands Out
In a world of large-scale festivals, DFKH feels refreshingly unique. It’s not about big crowds or flashy lights, it’s about art that speaks to today’s world and a town that feels like a living stage. The mix of international and local talent, historic venues, and a focus on community makes it a one-of-a-kind event.
Whether you’re watching a play in a Gothic theatre, relaxing in Breüerovy Gardens, or joining a discussion about art’s role in society, DFKH offers moments of connection and inspiration. It’s a festival where you can feel the pulse of contemporary theatre while surrounded by centuries-old beauty.
Explore Kutná Hora
Beyond the festival, Kutná Hora offers plenty to see. Visitors can explore the Bone Church in Sedlec, stroll through the historic center, or visit local cafes and markets. The town’s quiet charm and rich history make it the perfect backdrop for a weekend of art and discovery.
The Kutná Hora Performing Arts Festival 2025 is more than a theatre event, it’s a celebration of stories, music, and shared moments in a historic setting. With its diverse lineup, unique venues, and warm community spirit, it invites you to slow down, engage, and carry the experience with you long after the final curtain falls.
Zond