Golem

Golem is an original production by Divadlo v Dlouhé, brought to life on stage just a few dozen metres from the places where the story is said to have once unfolded. The script interweaves the Prague legend of the Golem with the legend of Doctor Faustus – both stories united by an obsession with the supernatural and a desire for immortality. The production was created by a creative duo from Hradec Králové's Divadlo Drak: director Jakub Vašíček and dramaturg Tomáš Jarkovský, who are also the authors of the script. The set and puppets were designed by Karel Czech, and the music was composed by Daniel Čámský.

The story follows three narrative threads: an eternal student Johan fascinated by the legend (Martin Matejka), whose travelling puppet theatre leads him to the court of Rudolf II (Tomáš Turek); Rabbi Löw (Jan Vondráček), the alleged creator of the animated clay statue; and Rudolf's cousin Leopold (Jan Staněk), who attempts to manipulate the emperor into signing a document allowing his army to enter Prague. The story of Doctor Faustus, played out on a small stage with traditional marionettes, strikingly resembles Johan's fate – in it too, obsession with the supernatural and the desire for immortality intensify. The production combines theatrical and puppet theatre, with all action taking place in the setting of a mysterious magical study where books move and other objects come to life. The ensemble also includes Magdalena Zimová, Pavel Tesař, Eva Hacurová, Marie Turková and Slávek Brabec. The performance lasts 2 hours including an interval, is performed in the main hall, and is intended for audiences aged 12 and above. English surtitles are available. The premiere took place on 29 March 2025.