The National Theatre of Kolozsvár [Cluj] in the Network of Hungarian Theatre Companies (Mapping Theatre Towns in the Second Half of 19th Century)

Abstract

The paper is focusing on historical particularities in close connection with spaces described in terms of geospatial mapping, as enduring places (as recognizable dots on maps). At the same time, different dynamics are to be reckoned with; as such, the once existing stone theatre building in Cluj is considered as a stock of functions and forms tied to processes of the past and the present. On the one hand a geospatial mapping highlights the spatial spreading of Hungarian acting against the backdrop of the ethnically mixed population of the so-called theatre towns in the second half of the 19th century. On the other hand, given the network of theatre scenes established as a consequence of touring companies, the particularity of the theatre in Cluj as it appears, it may be best described by taking into account institutional and artistic perspectives. A parallel between quantitative and qualitative dimensions presents the necessary intertwining of the structural determination (i. e., the theatre as a network element) and artistic career.

Keywords

• hungarian acting
• map
• 19th century
• provincial theatre companies
• kornélia prielle