Dubrovnik has a rich theatrical tradition rooted in the Renaissance comedy of Marin Držić (1508-1567) and the outdoor drama of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. This guide covers the main theatre venues and what to expect at each.
The Dubrovnik Summer Festival — outdoor drama
The festival's dramatic programme centres on Fort Lovrijenac (Shakespeare, epic drama) and Sponza Palace (theatre, monodrama). Fort Lovrijenac has hosted Hamlet performed by some of Europe's most celebrated actors; its cliff-top setting is unmatched for open-air performance. The festival runs 10 July-25 August.
Marin Držić Theatre — year-round repertory
The city theatre on Luža Square runs a September-to-June season of drama, opera and dance from the Croatian and international repertory. Works by Marin Držić (Dundo Maroje, Skup) are regularly revived. Tickets are inexpensive. See the Marin Držić Theatre guide.
Gundulić Square — open-air comedy
The baroque piazza named after Ivan Gundulić, behind the Cathedral, serves as a performance space for Renaissance comedy and folk performance during the Summer Festival season.
Lazareti — experimental and alternative theatre
The 17th-century quarantine complex outside the Ploče Gate hosts alternative and experimental theatre events alongside music, art installations and club nights. Programming is informal and aimed at local audiences. See the Lazareti guide.