The Modernization of Rose Garden Open-Air Theatre, Nyíregyháza

Architects: Roland Banu, Szabolcs Tenkely
Text: Péter Garai
Photos: Csaba Csutkai

Situated in the centre of Nyíregyháza, the open-air theatre with a unique atmosphere has undergone the most significant transformation of its history. As a protected historic complex, the theatre was renewed with modern technology and services, which in turn shows the reinterpretation of the relationship between the old and the new, the manmade and the natural environment. The two buffet pavilions and the entrance structure, as well as the central building bordering the auditorium from the south are organised around a spacious reception area which is in turn accentuated with a fountain and a rose garden. This symmetry is only counteracted by the arcaded tower of the control building, the gables are graced by the motifs of a lyre which is a reference to the function of the complex. The overall image is made unique by the prop-style uses of historic forms, such examples are the Egyptian-style capitals, the unique pointed and semi-circular openings, combined with flat roofs. As more visitors have been attracted, the successful events held here have encouraged the renaissance of the complex, which is facilitated by the entire revitalisation of the neighbouring green areas. Designers of the Nyíregyháza-based A’ Stúdió responded to the needs in a unique way, inspired by the modern spirituality of their team which emphasizes constructivity. The transformation of the complex enriched the city with a modern open-air theatre and a public meeting point, whilst the landscaped areas associated with it have evolved into public parks of the community.

General design: A’ Stúdió ’90 Kft.
Leading architects: Roland Banu, Szabolcs Tenkely
Fellow architects: István Gulán, Norbert Kótai, Gergely Tomku
Structure: Zoltán Tóth – Steel-soft Kft., Zsolt Méry – Pro-stat Kft.
HVAC: Tamás Tímár – Opti-team Bt.
Electrical engineering: Viktor Hepp
Framework: László Horváth – Estrad Bt.
Road, outdoor public utilities: Miklós Bartha – Bartherv Bt.
Landscape: Péter Márton – Fő-Kert-Ész Bt.
Stage technology: Péter Schramm – Animative Kft.
Acoustics: Andor Tamás Fürjes
Stage lighting: Viktor Hepp
Water mechanics: Sándor Szűcs – Ganz Hydro Kft.
Client: Nyíregyháza Megyei Jogú Város Önkormányzata
Main contractor: Ke-víz ’21 Zrt.