Experimental Puppetry Arts Centre Stara Zagora / 2023

architectural design  / competition proposal
visualizations: another studio

Puppet theater is pure magic. We choose the theater in hope of touching that magic, taking it with us, and
leaving the theatre hall lighter than we came. Lightness and airiness are the leading motives of the project for an Experimental Puppetry Arts Centre. We only consider it appropriate to plan the new building in connection and in support of the existing one. The
two buildings function synergistically and in harmony, complementing each other.
The proposed building does not intend to dominate the neighborhood with volume and height, it attracts
with its vision and character. The new volume treats the existing building with respect and equality, as
part of the whole. In this atmosphere of interference and synergy, the new and the old lift each other up
and function together as one balanced organism. For the sake of this connection, the old building
undergoes slight changes, keeping its identity intact. The sculptural facade of the main volume housing the auditorium and service area unfolds like a curtain towards the city – we expect the curtain to be pulled back at any moment so that we can witness the
magic. The solid volume is detached from the ground and seems to float in the air ‐ light, ethereal and airy,
just like the puppets or the spectator leaving the hall after a performance ‐ still captured in the magical
world of art. The bright and airy space of the reception area connects the solid volumes of the two buildings. The central
and spacious foyer becomes the heart of this composite organism, a pumping and buzzing heart, alive,
imbued with creative energy and anticipation, in contrast to the site's existing run‐down, narrow and
gloomy back entrances and service corridors. The ceiling of the lobby is designed with a reflective surface
in harmony with the feeling of lightness, airiness, unreality, sublimity. Artists have a secluded courtyard for rehearsals and relaxation at their disposal, as well as a spacious, outdoor terrace on the last level of the main volume, where art installations and outdoor performances can also take place.