Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre
A modern architectural marvel inspired by Elizabethan theatres, hosting international performances and the renowned Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Open-air cinema & pleasant weather
Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre
Best Time
Open-air cinema & pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern architectural marvel inspired by Elizabethan theatres, hosting international performances and the renowned Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival.
"A unique cultural gem blending modern design with the spirit of the Elizabethan era."
🎟️ Book Festival Tickets Early
The Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival is popular; secure your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
🪑 Choose Seating Wisely
Be aware that some seating is bench-style without backs, which can be uncomfortable for long shows.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Elizabethan-Inspired Interior
Main Auditorium
Step back in time with a wooden stage and galleries reminiscent of Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.

Retractable Roof Performances
Main Auditorium
Experience the magic of open-air theatre with the innovative retractable roof, perfect for summer shows.

The Striking Exterior Architecture
Exterior
Admire the fortress-like, modern design that stands in contrast to its historical theatrical inspiration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Comfortable Seating Considerations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Which side quest do i have to do in order to unlock this building in Gdańsk???
🎟️ Book Festival Tickets Early
The Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival is popular; secure your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
🪑 Choose Seating Wisely
Be aware that some seating is bench-style without backs, which can be uncomfortable for long shows.
4 nights in Gdansk, day trip to Warsaw?
A smart villain will equip their lair with a retractable roof. This makes for dramatic entrances and quick getaways!
🗣️ Check Translation Options
If you don't speak Polish, confirm if real-time translation screens are available and visible from your seat.
☀️ Enjoy the Open-Air Cinema
During summer, the theatre hosts an open-air cinema on its roof – a unique experience!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Festival Tickets Early
The Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival is popular; secure your tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.
🪑 Choose Seating Wisely
Be aware that some seating is bench-style without backs, which can be uncomfortable for long shows.
🗣️ Check Translation Options
If you don't speak Polish, confirm if real-time translation screens are available and visible from your seat.
☀️ Enjoy the Open-Air Cinema
During summer, the theatre hosts an open-air cinema on its roof – a unique experience!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre for its unique architecture, blending modern design with Elizabethan charm, and its role in hosting the renowned Shakespeare Festival. However, some find the seating uncomfortable and note potential issues with translation visibility during performances.
"The Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre is a unique cultural gem that blends modern design with the spirit of the Elizabethan era. Opened in 2014, it was inspired by Gdańsk’s 17th-century theatre tradition and built on the site where English actors once performed Shakespeare’s plays.
From the outside, it looks like a dark, fortress-like structure — but inside, it holds a wooden stage and galleries reminiscent of Shakespeare’s Globe. One of its most impressive features is the retractable roof, which allows for open-air performances.
The theatre hosts international productions and the renowned Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival, bringing classic and modern interpretations of Shakespeare to life. It’s a place where history, art, and architecture meet — and a must-visit for any theatre lover in Gdańsk."
Yarys
"Modern building with classy interior. Programs in this theater vary with different types of events. During summer there is an open air cinema on the theater roof."
Vira Green
"The actually space and investment in the scenography and set design are incredible. It is no doubt a very professional artistic undertaking. I will say the seating is a bit odd, it’s stadium seating, without individual seats, just one long hard wooden row with no seat back, which becomes quite uncomfortable after a certain length of time. Nice attempt at a throwback to the Globe with its standing pit but oy, Why go through all that when you can sit? Plus when you sit above the ground floor, the first row with the railing is great until you realize that the metal railing is at a height that you either have to croon your neck under or over. Oy. Plus the real-time translation is only on a screen directly above the back of the stage, meaning if you’re sitting in a side wing like we were, it’s impossible to both read the text and watch the performance. And sometimes the acoustics and enunciation were such, that the words would have come in handy. As the actual performance itself, The Tempest (in Polish), it was like every other modernist piece of Theater on the Polish stage. Full of lots of spectacle and frenetic energy and absurdist staging and. Grotesque elements that completely engulf the audience’s attention and detract from the actual beauty which is the beauty of the great bard Shakespeare. I doubt I’ll come back anytime in the next year or so, and if I do, it would be only for a classical stage - stick to the basics, please, you have what otherwise is a great venue and platform for it."
Arthur Henry Janik
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre is centrally located in the Old Town. You can easily reach it by walking from most central Gdańsk attractions. Public transport options include trams and buses that stop nearby. If driving, be aware that parking in the Old Town can be limited and costly.
Yes, several tram and bus lines stop within walking distance of the theatre, making it easily accessible via public transport from various parts of Gdańsk. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
Parking near the theatre can be challenging due to its Old Town location. There are paid parking lots and street parking available, but they often fill up quickly. Consider using public transport or a taxi if possible.
Yes, the Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre is situated in the heart of Gdańsk's Old Town, making it a convenient destination for tourists exploring the city.
From Gdańsk Airport (GDN), you can take a train or a taxi to the city center, and then proceed to the theatre. The train is often a cost-effective and efficient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official theatre website (
), at the box office, or through authorized ticket vendors. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular performances and the Shakespeare Festival.The theatre's opening hours vary depending on performance schedules. It's best to check the official website for specific showtimes and box office hours.
Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or groups. Check the theatre's website or inquire at the box office for current discount policies.
While some tickets might be available on the door, it's highly advisable to book in advance for the Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival as performances often sell out.
The theatre features a unique design inspired by the Globe Theatre, with some areas offering bench-style seating without backrests. This can be uncomfortable for some patrons during longer performances.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The theatre hosts a variety of performances, including classic and modern interpretations of Shakespeare, as well as other international theatrical productions. It's also known for its renowned Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival.
Information on guided tours is not widely available. It's best to check the official theatre website or contact them directly to inquire about any available tours of the venue.
Yes, during the summer months, the Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre hosts an open-air cinema on its roof, offering a unique viewing experience.
The interior is designed to evoke the spirit of Elizabethan theatres, with a wooden stage and galleries. It's a visually pleasing space that blends historical inspiration with modern functionality.
Real-time translation screens are sometimes available, typically positioned above the stage. However, their visibility can be an issue for those seated in side wings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities within the theatre might be limited, there are numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars in the surrounding Old Town area, offering a wide range of culinary choices.
Generally, bringing outside food and drinks into the performance hall is not permitted. It's best to consume refreshments before or after the show, or check the theatre's specific policies.
The area around the Gdańsk Shakespeare Theatre is rich with dining options, from traditional Polish cuisine to international flavors, cafes, and pubs. You'll find plenty of choices to suit any taste.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography and videography are typically not allowed during performances to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check with the theatre staff for specific rules regarding photography in public areas or before/after shows.
The unique exterior architecture and the interior's Elizabethan-inspired design offer great photo opportunities. The open-air cinema on the roof in summer is also a picturesque setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If attending a play, consider the length and nature of the performance. For older children or teenagers interested in theatre, the unique architecture and the chance to see international productions could be a fascinating experience. It's advisable to check the specific show's content and duration beforehand.
🎭 Theatre Aficionados
Be prepared for the theatre's unique seating arrangements, which aim for historical authenticity but can impact comfort during longer shows. Prioritizing tickets for festival performances will ensure you experience the theatre at its most vibrant.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
Don't miss the retractable roof, a marvel of engineering that allows for open-air performances, and the overall aesthetic that aims to transport visitors back in time. It's a prime example of how contemporary architecture can thoughtfully engage with the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: A Blend of Old and New
The theatre's most innovative feature is its retractable roof, a testament to its commitment to versatile performance spaces. This allows for breathtaking open-air productions, particularly during the summer months, echoing the original spirit of the Globe Theatre. The interior boasts stadium-style seating and a standing pit, aiming to recreate the immersive experience of Elizabethan playhouses, though some visitors find the seating arrangements less than comfortable for extended viewing.
Opened in 2014, the theatre was built on the very site where English actors historically staged plays. This historical connection is palpable, making it more than just a venue but a living piece of Gdańsk's cultural heritage. It's a place where architectural ambition meets a deep respect for theatrical history, offering a truly distinctive visitor experience.
The Gdańsk Shakespeare Festival Experience
Attending the festival offers a deep dive into contemporary theatre trends and the timeless power of Shakespeare's narratives. Visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with passionate theatre-goers and critically acclaimed productions. Due to the festival's popularity, securing tickets well in advance is crucial, as many performances tend to sell out quickly.
Beyond the main stage, the festival often includes related events, discussions, and workshops, providing a richer cultural experience. It's an essential event for theatre enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience the pinnacle of Shakespearean performance in a historically significant location.
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