Krasnal Teatralny Współczesny Powitalnik

Story

Teatralny - also known as Wspolczesny and Powitalnik - is Wroclaw's smallest and most enthusiastic theatre fan. He stands with arms wide open in front of the Contemporary Theatre building on ul. Rzeznicza 12, greeting every arriving audience member as if they were the star of the evening. His love for the stage started in childhood when he sneaked under the benches at travelling performances, forgetting to breathe until the final curtain fell. He once tried to pursue a stage career of his own, but his fellow dwarfs showed absolutely no interest in attending rehearsals - leaving him no choice but to enjoy great acting from the audience side.

History & Significance

The Teatralny dwarf appeared at the invitation of the theatre's management, who decided to welcome the little stage admirer as a permanent resident to mark the 60th anniversary of the Wspolczesny Theatre's existence. In doing so, the theatre likely became the only one in the world with a resident bronze dwarf. Sculptor Tomasz Moczek, the father of Wroclaw's dwarf tradition, created this figure. The dwarf stands at the main entrance, welcoming guests before every performance with his characteristic open-armed greeting.

Inspiration

The Wspolczesny Theatre (Wroclaw Contemporary Theatre), located at ul. Rzeznicza 12, was founded in 1948 and has been one of Lower Silesia's most important cultural institutions ever since. It hosted legendary directors including Krzysztof Warlikowski and Jan Klata. The theatre also organised the prestigious International Theatre Festival DIALOG-Wroclaw for many years. Placing a dwarf at its entrance was a playful way to humanise the theatrical experience and invite both adults and children to discover the magic of the stage.

Fun Facts

• He goes by three names: Teatralny, Wspolczesny, and Powitalnik - each describing a different part of his personality.
• Standing with arms wide open, he is one of the most 'huggable' and photogenic dwarfs in the entire city.
• The Wspolczesny Theatre is one of Poland's most artistically important stages, with a history stretching back to 1948.
• Sculptor Tomasz Moczek, who created the first five Wroclaw dwarfs in 2005, is also the author of this theatrical figure.
• Every evening before a performance, Teatralny technically plays the leading role - as the first character every guest encounters.

How to Find This Dwarf

The Wspolczesny Theatre is very close to the Old Town. From the Market Square, head south-east along ul. Swidnicka and turn left onto ul. Rzeznicza. The theatre building is on the left at number 12. Teatralny stands right at the main entrance, arms outstretched - hard to miss if you're looking for him.

Nearby Dwarfs

Frequently Asked Questions

Accessibility

Wheelchair AccessibleGround LevelOutdoor

Located at the main entrance of the theatre on a flat pavement. The theatre building has step-free access at the main door. Fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs.