Geo Milev
Drama Theater

The Geo Milev Drama Theater in Stara Zagora boasts a rich history spanning over 140 years. Its origins trace back to 1870 when theatrical activities commenced under the guidance of teacher Petar Ivanov, with contributions from Kolyu Ganchev and his orchestra. The inaugural performance took place on April 18, 1870, featuring P.R. Slaveykov’s play “Malakova” in the hall of the Main Girls’ School near the “Sveta Bogoroditsa” church in the Akardja neighborhood.

In 1900, performances were organized by a troupe associated with the “Theater” society. The foundation stone for the current theater building was laid on April 1, 1912, based on a design by architect Nikola Lazarov, resembling the Viennese Baroque style. By 1914, the new theater hall was operational, and in 1916, poet Geo Milev directed experimental productions of Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex” and Gogol’s “The Government Inspector.”

The establishment of professional theater arts in the city began in the 1919-1920 season, significantly influenced by Mara Shopova and her brother Dancho Delchev, who were pivotal in fostering diverse creative endeavors. Nationalization occurred in 1950 and again in 1954. In 1970, by a decree of the National Assembly, the theater was renamed “Geo Milev” Drama Theater. Since 1971, it has been housed in a modern building located at 30 “Metropolitan Methodius Kusev” Blvd.

In 2017, the theater’s troupe received the “Stara Zagora” Award for their creative project “Tsar posleden,” directed by Yosif Sarchadjiev.