The Constanța State Theatre has reopened the Studio-BCR Hall, a vital space for Constanța's cultural scene.

The Constanța State Theatre hosted the official reopening event of the Studio Hall on Friday, November 29. This essential space for the cultural scene in Constanța recently underwent extensive renovations.

The modernization was made possible by financial support amounting to €200,000 from Banca Comercială Română (BCR), the main sponsor of the project, joined by PPC Energie SA and Rețele Electrice Dobrogea SA as partners.

"Thanks to the significant support from BCR and the other partners, we transformed an improvised space into a landmark in the city's center. This hall will provide the Constanța community with opportunities for international-level theatre performances and other cultural events. We also hope this initiative serves as a model of best practices, encouraging further involvement from the business sector in the sustainable development of Constanța's culture. Additionally, we want tonight to lay another brick in the construction of the 'Constanța – European Capital of Culture' project," said Erwin Șimșensohn, General Director of the Constanța State Theatre.

A significant contribution also came from the SAS Architecture Office, which, under the guidance of architect Mihai Stebingăr, provided pro bono design work, helping transform the space into a modern, welcoming venue tailored to the artistic community's needs.

The support was complemented by contributions in products or significant discounts offered to the Constanța State Theatre by GEALAN Romania and Grohe.

Throughout the renovation process, the Constanța State Theatre was privileged to have a trusted partner, the Romanian Theatre Union (UNITER).

"What we see now is an endeavor initiated and impeccably carried out by Mr. Director Erwin Șimșensohn and his team. This effort, driven by passion, energy, and dedication, brought together BCR, SAS Architecture Studio, the Constanța State Theatre, UNITER, PPC Energie, and Rețele Electrice Dobrogea to deliver today a modern theatrical space. This hall will cater to all audience categories, serving as a platform for promoting young talent and a space for creative exchanges. It is a long-awaited local, regional, and national cultural platform for creators and audiences alike," stated Dragoș Buhagiar, President of UNITER, and Aura Corbeanu, Executive Vice President.

The event brought together key figures who played decisive roles in the redevelopment of this cultural venue, including Anamaria Mișa, Corporate Communications and Community Affairs Coordinator at BCR; Mircea Georgescu, Head of Corporate Sales at PPC Energie; Florin Aprodu, Director of Rețele Electrice Dobrogea; architect Mihai Stebingăr; numerous representatives from authorities, cultural institutions, the press, academia, and the local business community; as well as young volunteers.

"The renovation of the Studio Hall is more than a modernization project—it's about values. At BCR, we believe in values such as education, trust, and hope. Today, more than ever, we need hope. With the inauguration of the Studio Hall, I take with me the hope inspired by our young actors, the Constanța State Theatre team, and my favorite director, Diana Mititelu, who taught me to love theatre. And I also carry hope because we've proven that when we all play on the same team, we can succeed. When we play together for Constanța," said Anamaria Mișa, BCR Communications Coordinator.

The evening culminated in a performance of Games in the Backyard by Edna Mazya, directed by Diana Mititelu, a production acclaimed by critics and audiences alike. The play addresses contemporary themes with depth and provocation, appealing to both younger and mature audiences. The production highlights the Studio Hall's role as a space fostering stories that challenge us to reflect and engage in dialogue about the realities of our society.

The new Studio Hall BCR is designed as a multifunctional space, capable of hosting classic and experimental theatre performances, workshops, and cultural events that connect Constanța audiences with local and international artists.

The reopening event of the Studio Hall marks a new beginning for the Constanța State Theatre, reaffirming its commitment to the community and the cultural life of the city, while inviting audiences of all ages to visit the theatre more often.