The only existing theatre in the city, named after
Dubrovnik's most renowned playwright, the
Marin Držić was installed where the old Town Hall stands. This privately built neo-Renaissance edifice, with an ornate interior, opened its doors to the public in 1865. Although the auditorium is rather small, it has staged many extraordinary performances. Marin Držić is a repertory theatre with a permanent company, whose programme is based on the literary heritage of Dubrovnik, as well as national and international classics. The venue is central to the annual
Dubrovnik Festival.