We stand by Matej Drlička and the Slovak National Theatre!
Today, the Minister of Culture, Martina Šimkovičová, dismissed the general director of SND, Matej Drlička, again without giving specific reasons, explanation and with immediate effect.
For several years, Matej Drlička led the SND as an institution of the 21st century, with opinion and artistic variety. A few days ago, he also received the title of Knight of the French Order of Arts and Letters for his contribution in the cultural field. However, also during his tenure, shows in the SND also featured critical views towards Slovak politics and society, as well as other current topics that should be certainty in a free country. However, they are undesirable for the current government and especially the Ministry of Culture, as SND as one of the largest national institutions has the potential to appeal to a large number of viewers.
As an academic institution that upholds the values of democracy, we alienate this arbitrary decision of the MK SR, as well as other efforts for political control of national institutions.