History of the Drama and Puppet Theater “Vasil Drumev” – Shumen

The Drama and Puppet Theater “Vasil Drumev” in Shumen is the oldest theater in Bulgaria. Founded during the National Revival, it grew from an amateur community stage into a leading cultural institution named after Vasil Drumev — a Shumen-born writer, playwright, and public figure. Today the theater unites drama and puppetry under one roof and continues to shape Bulgaria’s cultural life.

Archival image associated with the first Bulgarian theatrical performance in Shumen, 1856 — Shumen’s 1856 beginnings during the National Revival.

Origins in the National Revival (1856–1911)

Bulgarian theater’s story begins in Shumen in 1856, when teacher Sava Dobroplodni and his students staged the comedy “Mihal Mishkoed.” Performed in Bulgarian during the Ottoman era, this marked the birth of Bulgarian theater and ignited a lasting passion for the stage. In the following decades, figures such as Dobri Voynikov and Vasil Drumev wrote and directed new works, drawing devoted audiences and shaping a modern literary and theatrical language.

Activities were centered in the local chitalishte (community center). By the end of the century, the city had developed a vibrant theatrical culture, culminating in 1911 with the establishment of the Shumen City Theater as a permanent professional troupe.

Historic community center hall where early Shumen performances took place — The community center stage fostered the first Bulgarian plays.

Theater curtain commissioned in 1898, preserved as part of Shumen’s theatrical heritage — A rare 1898 curtain — a symbol of early civic support for theater.

A New Stage and the Puppetry Tradition (1950s–1980s)

In 1956 Shumen completed its first purpose-built theater, inaugurated on October 13, 1957 with “Ivanko, the Assassin of Assen I” by Vasil Drumev. The dedicated building transformed the troupe’s capabilities and audience experience.

Opening of the 1957 theater building in Shumen — The 1957 theater building anchored a new era of productions.

Parallel to drama, Shumen cultivated a strong puppetry tradition. An amateur puppet troupe formed in the 1950s evolved into a professional state puppet theater by the mid-1970s, creating original children’s productions and earning national recognition.

Early puppet troupe in Shumen performing for children — Puppetry flourished in Shumen and became part of the institution’s identity.

In 1981 the theater building was reconstructed and expanded, yielding the present-day modernist venue with improved stages and facilities. The name “Vasil Drumev” honors the local writer whose works and legacy helped define Bulgarian drama.

Current theater building in Shumen with modernist arches, opened after 1981 reconstruction — The 1981 reconstruction shaped today’s emblematic theater building.

Expansion, Festivals, and National Recognition (1990s–2000s)

The repertoire embraced Bulgarian classics, contemporary writing, and international works. Since the early 1990s, Shumen has hosted the “Drumev Theater Festival – New Bulgarian Drama,” a national platform that champions new playwriting and showcases leading productions every May.

Scene from the New Bulgarian Drama festival in Shumen — Each May, the festival brings contemporary Bulgarian drama to Shumen.

In 2000, the drama and puppet theaters unified as one institution: Drama and Puppet Theater “Vasil Drumev.” The company has earned numerous awards and distinctions, continuing a tradition of excellence and collaboration with distinguished artists and directors.

Ensemble and awards reflecting the theater’s national recognition — National recognition for an enduring theatrical legacy.

A Modern Era of Innovation (2010–Present)

In recent years the theater has renewed its energy with a modern vision and a young leadership team. The repertoire blends fresh interpretations of classics with contemporary titles, attracting new audiences and strengthening community ties. Attendance has risen significantly, and investments in lighting, sound, and touring capacity have improved production quality and reach.

Portrait of the theater’s young director leading a modern vision — Young leadership and renewed vision for the 21st century.

The “Vasil Drumev” Theater also fosters international collaborations and remains a key host of new Bulgarian drama. Looking ahead, plans for building upgrades aim to enhance comfort and acoustics while preserving the venue’s character.

Contemporary production on the main stage with a full audience — A living stage — classic and contemporary works side by side.

True to its innovative spirit, the theater is also preparing a dedicated merchandise line — a first for a Bulgarian theater — to deepen audience engagement and celebrate Shumen’s theatrical heritage in new ways.

Tasteful teaser of upcoming theater merchandise — Coming soon: the first dedicated theater merchandise shop in Bulgaria.

Continuity and Legacy

From the first Bulgarian performance in 1856 to today’s two-stage institution, the Drama and Puppet Theater “Vasil Drumev” embodies continuity, creativity, and civic spirit. Visitors can explore a rich past and experience a vibrant present — where classic Bulgarian drama, world masterpieces, and imaginative puppet shows meet on Shumen’s stages.