Maribor has had its
own theatre since 1785. Initially, it was a modest
building, but in 1852 was replaced by a new, larger
building. Although the building has undergone several
renovations, it has served the community to the present 
day. Recently a new large modern wing has been
added to the theatre, which will make possible the
staging of more innovative productions as well as a
variety of other events.
The Slovene National Theatre has got a
full repertory of dramas, operas, and ballets. Under the
directorship of esteemed artists it has been staging
interesting examples of the drama and opera repertory.
From 1966 on, each autumn various Slovene theatres meet
in Maribor at Borstnikovo srecanje (the Borstnik
Meeting). Here they repeat their best performances of the
year. This is the largest turnout of theatres in
Slovenia.
In addition, Maribor, drawing on a long and rich
tradition, is alive with amateur theatrical endeavours.
Actually, the longest running amateur theatre in Slovenia
is the Slava Klavora Theatre. Similary, the Puppet
Theatre is very popular in the city. A professional
puppet company has been active in the city since 1975.