Actor Museum - Thália House

The museum documents and presents the history of Miskolc's theatre and the careers of its artists to the public. The permanent exhibition, titled "This is a cheerful city, we’ll be happy here…", summarises the history of Miskolc's theatrical tradition from its beginnings to the present day, based on a script by theatre historian and museologist Gábor Mikita and designs by visual designer Katalin Juhász. The first section recalls the early days of Miskolc's theatre: many significant figures of 19th-century Hungarian theatre performed in Miskolc – they are commemorated, among other things, by the marble statues at the arched entrance of the neoclassical building. The upstairs exhibition rooms showcase the operation of Miskolc's second permanent theatre, inaugurated in 1857.

The main hall, summarising the half-century of the nationalised theatre, evokes the world of the stage, allowing visitors to feel as if they are in a simulated stage environment: exhibition documents, photos, posters, stage designs, personal items, and theatrical structures are displayed among stylised set elements and backdrop walls.

In addition to performances that influenced the entirety of Hungarian theatre history, personal stories are also significant. Memories of Éva Ruttkai and Zoltán Latinovits meeting in Miskolc, the Latabár dynasty, Margit Dajka's legacy, and the memories of artists loyal to Miskolc, such as István Ábrahám and Tibor Fehér, evoke unforgettable theatrical evenings. For younger visitors, a children's corner awaits with puppets, costumes, colouring books, and puzzles.

Alongside the continuous expansion of its collection, the institution also engages in diverse public collection activities: its temporary exhibitions commemorate, among others, the greatest figures of Hungarian theatre, and its cultural programmes engage all age groups, from the youngest to retirees.

PLAY-ACTING-HOUSE

Activities at the Actor Museum

MUSEUM MATINEE

Theatre tales, puppet-making, costume dressing, and family board games on Saturday mornings or at specially arranged times for groups and large families.

STARS WALKING THE EARTH

This educational session introduces the prominent figures of travelling theatre, based on period illustrations, recollections, and the poems of Sándor Petőfi. The aim of the session is to provide a comprehensive overview of the beginnings and Reform Era flourishing of Hungarian and Miskolc theatre, highlighting the role of the "nation's labourers."

LET'S PLAY PUPPET THEATRE!

This session introduces children to the fascinating world of puppet theatre, exploring various puppet techniques and their cultural history – from rod puppets to marionettes. During the 90-minute session, participants will also create their own puppets.