Ker se dogajanje v Križankah začne čez tri tedne, bodo usposobili oder, ki bo v celoti pokrit, avditorij bo do druge polovice avgusta verjetno ostal odkrit. Foto: MMC RTV SLO/K. K.
Ker se dogajanje v Križankah začne čez tri tedne, bodo usposobili oder, ki bo v celoti pokrit, avditorij bo do druge polovice avgusta verjetno ostal odkrit. Foto: MMC RTV SLO/K. K.
Križanke
Because of the snow the canvas was ripped in two places, next to the columns and in above the front of the stage, and one of the columns collapsed under the weight of snow. Foto: MMC RTV SLO

According to Darko Brlek, Director of the Ljubljana Festival managing the Križanke theatre, the roof is capable of withstanding the temperatures between ten to fourteen degrees which had been predicted for the last week of April. Once the temperature dropped and the snow began to fall, they started preparations for closing the roof, but the snow started to accumulate too soon, and they had to withdraw the workers as it became too dangerous.

Because of the snow the canvas was ripped in two places, next to the columns and in above the front of the stage, and one of the columns collapsed under the weight of snow. Next day the snow started to thaw, and two huge pools formed on top of the canvas roof, so they had to ask firemen for help. They cut the canvas to drain the water, and thus prevented even greater damage.

Brlek said that the precise estimation of the damage has not been made, but in 2009 the restoration of the roof cost approximately EUR 550,000. The analysis has already been made of the appropriate approach for removing the roof, and the offers are being collected for its storage. Next a tender for adaptation will be called.

Acoustic events will be moved to the Cankar Hall
At first such a stage as they set at the Kongres Square for events will be enabled. It will be completely equipped and covered, while the auditorium will remain open. All events requiring sound systems will be planned and performed in Križanke, while acoustic concerts are transferred to the Cankar Hall, and the Slovenian Philharmonic Hall, as the acoustic would be much worse without the auditorium roof.

In the meantime all the necessary steps will be taken to prepare everything necessary for installation of the new roof, which is planned after the break in late July and August – no event is planned until August 20. According to Brlek 30 to 40 days will be necessary for completing the new roof.

The programme of the Ljubljana Festival will remain as planned, and other performers can rent the theatre with open auditorium; in such cases the price will be lower, or they can cancel their contracts without penalties.

M. K.
Translated by G. K.