On April 30th, 2025, MYP0 and MYP1 students visited the Croatian National Theatre for an expert-guided backstage tour. First, we explored the actors’ changing rooms and went beneath the stage to see the mechanisms behind the plays’ special effects - such as small elevators that lift actors and props on and off the stage, and a carousel that can rotate during performances. We also visited the orchestral pit, the space below the stage where the musicians perform. We learned that the Croatian National Theatre hosts ballet, drama, and opera performances - all taking place on a single, large stage. Next, we visited the Emperor’s Salon, also known as the Golden Salon, and even got a glimpse of the emperor’s private bathroom, which was beautifully decorated with painted ceramics. We then went to see his private balcony. We were surprised to discover that the view from there wasn’t very good, it was mainly designed so the audience could see the emperor, rather than for him to watch the play comfortably. We also took a closer look at the audience area. We learned that the theatre currently has around 850 seats, although there used to be more. Many were removed because the room would become too crowded. Our guide also told us about the ceiling fresco and the chandelier, and we learned that the stage has nine curtains, including an iron curtain used in case of fire! At the end of the tour, we walked through the underground tunnel leading to the ballet rehearsal rooms and learned about the theatre’s internal communication system.

Overall, this tour was a fascinating and magical experience that revealed all the work behind the shows we enjoy. It allowed us to see the theatre from a whole new perspective.

Zofia (MYP Journalist Group)