Zamojskie Lato Teatralne (Theatrical Summer in Zamość)

During this event which takes place at the end of June and the beginning of July the best Polish theatre groups come to Zamość to give their performances in the Old Town.

The event is also one of the most recognisable and highly valued artistic events in Zamość. In 2005 it was granted a certificate of Polish Tourist Organisation, awarded for the best tourist product.

Theatrical Summer is neither a contest nor a festival or a review. There are no competitors and no prizes are awarded; what counts is art itself which happens before the eyes of Zamość residents and visitors, under a roof consisting of the sun, clouds and sometimes rain, in the long shadows of Armenian tenement houses or in the darkness of casemates. In fact, there is a prize: the best theatre according to the audience is granted Hetman’s Baton and opens the next edition of Theatrical Summer.  
The event has at least three fathers. The first father is Jan Zamoyski, who erected Zamość and in whose life art, including the theatre played a very important part. Although he did not realize it at the time, he built the largest theatrical stage, discovered by posterity a few hundred years later, i.e. the Old Town in Zamość.

The second father is William Shakespeare because if it had not been for him and his unique plays for which Zamość Old Town proved to be the best stage, Theatrical Summer in Zamość would not have started over 35 years ago.

The third father has something in common with the other two. His name is Jan, like that of the first father’s and he loves plays just like the second one did. He remained faithful to Theatrical Summer in Zamość since its beginnings till his death. In recognition of his love for Zamość and theatre Jan Machulski was granted the title of its honorary resident. At present his wife Halina Machulska, who also played a very important part in the event, comes here every year.

For the past 35 years the best Polish and many foreign theatrical groups have performed in Zamość and the best actors, directors, dressers, gaffers and sound designers have taken part in the Theatrical Summer.

And of course the best audience. You can join it.

Theatrical Summer in Zamość is accompanied by Vocal Meetings in Zamość called Songs in a Theatrical Mask.

Organiser: Zamość Community Centre