Experience 'On the Royal Stage': Stanisław August's Theatrical Canon Exhibition at Royal Łazienki Museum

This exhibition in the Old Orangery explores the theatrical world through costumes, props, set designs, and performance photographs. It highlights plays by Sophocles, Molière, Racine, and Shakespeare, which formed King Stanisław August's theatrical canon.

The exhibition "On the Royal Stage: Stanisław August's Theatrical Canon" delves into the last Polish king's theatrical interests and literary tastes, focusing on the works of Sophocles, Molière, Racine, and Shakespeare. Stanisław August's fascination with these playwrights is reflected in the original painted decoration of the Royal Theatre in the Old Orangery, where the artist Jan Bogumił Plersch immortalized their profiles on the ceiling. The Royal Theatre, alongside the Small Theatre and the Amphitheatre, was one of three theatrical stages in Royal Łazienki. The exhibition also illustrates how the plays of Sophocles, Molière, Racine, and Shakespeare, along with the legacy of ancient drama, became part of Polish theatre history. Visitors can view exhibits from the Theatre Museum, including costumes, props, set designs, photographs, and memorabilia from various eras. These items recall selected Polish productions of the great playwrights' works, such as "Britannicus," "The Imaginary Invalid," "Phèdre," "Hamlet," "Oedipus Rex," "Measure for Measure," and "Richard III."

Admission is included with a joint ticket to the museum's facilities. Tickets can be purchased at the ticket offices in Podchorążówka, the Old Orangery, and Stajnie Kubickiego. Opening hours vary by day and are available on the museum's website.