1936 On the Continent

which is similar. The Municipal Theatre and the Little Theatre (Komorní divadlo), both of which have first-rate stock companies, limit themselves to straight plays, and the same applies to the German “Kleine Bühne.” All these theatres are of the repertory type, and they have a large and varied repertory, so that the theatre in Prague offers you, every day, a very wide choice of plays, not only by Czechoslovak authors but also by the leading European dramatists. The price of seats is very moderate and they can be reserved by telephone.
Small Theatres
    Some of the smaller theatres are very interesting. Thus there is the enterprise known as D 30, etc., according to the current year. It is directed by progressive youngintellectuals, and the visitor will find that its performances are quite out of the ordinary. Another establishment of a similar type is the “Liberated Theatre” (Osvobozené divadlo), the leading spirits of which are the two highly original comedians, Voskovec and Werich. This theatre specialises in revues, the satire of which is apt to be rather local, but is always full of wit. This is true also of the shows at Vlasta Burian’s Theatre. Burian is perhaps the best known of all Czech comic actors, and he is a great favourite of the Prague public. I should perhaps add that there are several suburban theatres of a popular character, as well as a number of establishments where musical comedy performances maintain quite a high level.
    As regards music, I need hardly say that this has been one of the leading features of Prague ever since the time of Mozart. It possesses several first-rate orchestras of European reputation, and during the season good music can be heard any evening of the week. The musical standard of Prague has always been high, and it is therefore not surprising that every musician of repute appears there during the season, and even in the summer the musical life of the city still continues.
    Choral music is widely cultivated in Czechoslovakia, and there are several large choirs, male, female and mixed, which enjoy a great reputation. Long training has enabled these choirs to reach a remarkably high standard in singing in unison without orchestral accompaniment, and the effect which is thus produced by the blending of hundreds of voices is something altogether unique.
Night Life
    So much for the evening. As regards the later hours, I need only say that Prague is full of cafés, taverns and wineshops which are open most of the night and which generally provide some sort of musical entertainment, including gipsy orchestras. Prague is particularly well supplied with night clubs, which are here known as “bars.” Most of these establishments are tastefully furnished and their attractions include, of course, a dance floor. Food and drink at the night clubs is rather more expensive than in the hotel restaurants, but first rate in quality. Between the dances there are variety performances, some of which are excellent. Among the smartestestablishments of this type may be mentioned the Alhambra and Boccaccio. The Lucerna is more popular and less Bohemian in character, while the Mánes can claim a higher artistic standard. In the Old Town there are several smaller bars, none of which you need be afraid to enter. They do not begin to be animated until after midnight, and in the small hours of the morning they serve excellent soup, goulash or some other tasty dish.
    Prague abounds, too, in quaint little taverns which you should visit in the company of some Prague friend who is familiar with them, although I hasten to add that even if you are alone, you need not fear that anything unpleasant will happen to you.
    This brings me to the subject of the Czechoslovak national character. After a little experience, I think you will agree with me that the average Czechoslovak is a convivial soul who makes friends easily. He is democratic in his attitude towards others, without being unduly familiar. Do not misunderstand him if at first he does not seem to be outwardly effusive. You will find that he has a fund of genuine kindliness, and if you show that you are interested in his country, you will at once win his heart.
    The visitor to Czechoslovakia who is anxious to make acquaintances there can, of course, apply to his Legation for advice. Useful help can also be obtained from the Y.M.C.A. or the Y.W.C.A., as well as the British Society of Czechoslovakia which has its headquarters at the excellent