Redefining Korca’s Cultural Hub: The Andon Zako Çajupi Theatre

Located in the heart of Korca, Albania, the Andon Zako Çajupi Theatre stands as a testament to architectural ingenuity and cultural revitalization. Originally gifted by Moscow prior to the rupture between Albanian Communism and Post-Stalinist Russia, the theatre underwent a transformative journey, evolving from Soviet classicism to a distinctive Balkan Art déco aesthetic.

A Symbolic Revival

In 2009, Bolles + Wilson emerged victorious in an international planning competition aimed at revitalizing Korca’s historic center. Central to their masterplan was the reconfiguration of the expansive Theatre Square, a focal point for national events and celebrations. Anchored by the iconic Red Bar in the Sky, a creation of Bolles + Wilson completed in 2014, the square now serves as a vibrant nexus, seamlessly integrated with the city’s urban fabric. The addition of a campanile, offering panoramic views of Korca’s historic skyline, further enhances the area’s allure.

Architectural Metamorphosis

The metamorphosis of the Andon Zako Çajupi Theatre epitomizes Bolles + Wilson’s approach to architectural innovation. With a vision to enhance seating capacity and modernize the auditorium, the design team embarked on a radical transformation. The once two-tiered auditorium was reimagined as a spacious, sloped plane, accommodating a larger audience while optimizing sightlines and acoustics.

Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

At the heart of the theatre’s redesign lies a captivating display of theatrical iconography. Drawing inspiration from the timeless symbols of comedy and tragedy, Bolles + Wilson adorned the façade with 140 intricately crafted terracotta masks, each representing a member of the audience. These meticulously detailed masks, created by local artisan Vasillaq Kolevica, pay homage to both the rich heritage of Albanian theatre and the vibrant community of Korca.

Handcrafted Excellence

Bolles + Wilson’s design philosophy is epitomized by a meticulous attention to detail, seamlessly blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary architectural techniques. From Peter Wilson’s hand-drawn concepts to the intricate execution by local artisans, every aspect of the theatre’s transformation reflects a harmonious collaboration between visionaries and craftsmen. Whether sketching 1:1 details directly on the walls or sculpting polystyrene insulation blocks with precision, the architects ensured that their creative vision translated seamlessly into tangible reality.

A Cultural Beacon

The Andon Zako Çajupi Theatre stands not only as a cultural landmark but also as a testament to the transformative power of architecture. By reimagining spaces and redefining narratives, Bolles + Wilson have revitalized Korca’s cultural hub, creating a vibrant, dynamic environment where tradition meets innovation. As the theatre continues to captivate audiences and inspire generations, it remains a shining beacon of artistic excellence and architectural innovation in Albania and beyond.