Lucie Výborná Reflects on a Life in Theater, From Vinohrady to Fidlovačka

Actress Lucie Výborná, known for her extensive career in Czech theater and television, recently shared insights into her life and work in an interview with Eliška Balzerová. The conversation, featured in the Seznam Zprávy podcast “Na Výbornou,” touched upon her decades-long journey through various theatrical institutions, including the Divadlo na Vinohradech and Divadlo Na Fidlovačce, as well as her reflections on change, legacy, and the enduring magic of the stage.

A Career Defined by Transitions

Výborná began her theatrical career at the Divadlo na Vinohradech, where she spent twenty years. She then moved to Divadlo Na Fidlovačce, a transition that involved not just joining a company, but actively building the theater itself. She collaborated with fellow actor Tomáš Töpfer to secure funding for the restoration of the theater in Nuselské údolí, which originally opened in 1921. Currently, she is likewise involved with Studio Dva.

The interview took place at the Three Friends Cafe near Wenceslas Square, a location Výborná cherishes for its Parisian atmosphere. She enjoys spending weekends there with her husband and chef, observing the life around them.

Embracing Change and Facing the Future

Výborná spoke candidly about the challenges of leaving established roles and institutions, referencing a prophecy from fortune teller Helena Růžičková about a significant division in her life. She noted that leaving a comfortable situation becomes more tough with age, but is still possible. She connected this to her Wallachian heritage, suggesting a resilience that allowed her to navigate these changes.

She recounted leaving the Vinohrady theater after twenty years, and later, departing Fidlovačka after nearly two decades (including five years dedicated to its reconstruction). She described the emotional experience of clearing her makeup table and leaving, emphasizing the deep connection she felt to Fidlovačka, calling it “my child.”

The Allure of the Stage

Výborná expressed her profound love for the theater, describing the anticipation of each performance and the unique connection with every audience. She shared her ritual of standing on the empty stage before a show, imagining the audience and the dialogue to come. She finds joy in witnessing the different reactions of each crowd, noting that every night brings a new experience.

She recalled a moment inspired by watching Judi Dench and Maggie Smith on stage, where Dench’s simple presence elicited applause, and how she experienced a similar phenomenon during a performance of “Divorce.”

Family and the Next Generation

The conversation also touched upon the role of her daughter, Adéla, a dramaturg. Although they discuss work, Adéla often offers insights into roles that might be suitable for her mother, and others that might be better suited for younger actors. Výborná acknowledged that dramaturgy is a often unacknowledged profession, involving extensive preparation and consultation, yet rarely receiving direct public recognition.

She also reflected on the challenges of being a public figure and maintaining a sense of privacy, acknowledging the require to develop a thick skin and focus on positive interactions.

A Life Surrounded by Flowers

In a more personal note, Výborná described her love for flowers, particularly ficus plants, and how they bring life and beauty to her home. She often brings flowers from the theater, creating a vibrant atmosphere in her apartment.

The full interview with Lucie Výborná is available on the Seznam Zprávy podcast “Na Výbornou.”