Theodor, main dancer and director of HILT, was violently attacked — now hospitalized with multiple fractures. April shows cancelled
Theodor, main dancer and director of HILT, is currently in a critical condition and unable to perform or manage regular operations. He remains immobilized due to serious injuries and is only able to work in very limited capacity for short periods of time. All shows are cancelled until the end of April 2026.
I am not going into details of what exactly happened. This is the first moment I am physically able to at least write a short update, so that our audience clearly understands why we are not performing and why it is simply not possible at this time.
Two days after the incident, still under strong pain medication, I completed three performances in one day as part of our Czech tour at the Municipal Theatre in Jablonec nad Nisou, for approximately 1500 spectators. In severe pain, I returned to Prague during the night, believing it was only bruising.
The following morning, I had to call emergency services. Medical examinations revealed two fractured ribs, one of them displaced, along with additional injuries causing serious breathing difficulties.
After short hospitalization, I was released to home care, but I am under constant assistance. My partner and colleague Martin is taking care of me daily, alongside other members of the HILT team who are helping in shifts. In recent days, production assistant Dana has been assisting, and even our youngest performer František has taken night shifts to ensure I am not left alone.
Since the founding of HILT 18 years ago, I have personally managed all core operational access, including booking systems and financial controls, for security reasons. Despite my condition, I have managed to stop all ticket sales until the end of April and have started working, step by step, on refunds.
On March 27, 2026, the first unaware visitors arriving at our Prague theatre learned about the situation directly at the entrance.
Everything is currently very complicated. I am able to work less than an hour per day with assistance. Most of the time I remain lying down, in pain even under medication, alternating between short periods of sleep. I am not taking phone calls and I try to avoid speaking due to breathing difficulties. I will begin responding to selected urgent emails as soon as possible.
HILT Black Light Theatre
Black light theatre is wordless stage magic: under UV light, black-clad performers “disappear,” so masks, puppets and glowing objects seem to move by themselves. It’s pure visual storytelling—playful, surprising, and understood by any audience. HILT is a world-traveling ensemble performing this craft on major stages and festivals. |
Black Light Theatre: Where Visible Spectacle Meets Invisible Artistry
As Theodor Hoidekr, director of the renowned HILT black light theatre, explains, creating a new show demands a unique perspective: "For me, the most difficult part is thinking separately about the visible scene, the shining props and costumes, and separately about the invisible scene, the actors moving unseen in the dark. In the final result, it must be a precise combination of both."
HILT Black Light Theater Prague: A Journey in Invisible Light and Silent Storytelling
Founded in 2007 by theatrical innovators Theodor Hoidekr and Štěpánka Pencová, HILT has distinguished itself through its commitment to non-verbal storytelling, intricate choreography, and innovative visual effects. Tracing its journey from initial corporate events to acclaimed international tours, festival appearances, and daily performances in Prague, this paper highlights HILT's significant contributions to the black light theatre genre and its enduring ability to enchant audiences worldwide..
HILT Black Light Theatre Finds Friendship and Success at Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2025 Through Collaboration with Indian Directors
The success of HILT’s performance at Bharat Rang Mahotsav hinged on the profound cooperation with Indian directors Swati Sharma Vyas and Sajal Mondal. Their expertise and understanding of the Indian theatrical scene were instrumental in ensuring a seamless integration of the HILT's vision into the festival's venues in Jaipur and New Delhi. These individuals acted as key stage managers, orchestrating the intricate set-up of stages, lighting, and projections for HILT’s performance.
Česko-indické vztahy opět rostou díky Černému divadlu HILT
Dobré obchodní vztahy mezi Indií a Českem sahají až do středověku. V rámci divadelních vztahů nejvíce uspělo české Černé divadlo HILT. V roce 2007 se tato skupina, tehdy nově vzniklá, vydala na dalekou cestu poprvé.
Originated in Prague in the 1960s
Prague, Czech Republic, is a city that is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife. However, one of the lesser-known gems of this beautiful city is its thriving black light theatre scene.
Theodor Hoidekr - black light dream came true
As a child, Hoidekr dreamed of one day having his own theatre where he could bring his creative ideas to life. This dream became a reality when he opened his own theatre, showcasing his unique and innovative productions to audiences around the world.
No language barriers
This unique theatre genre combines elements of dance, mime, and visual effects to create a mesmerizing experience for all spectators. The success of HILT lies in its ability to transcend language barriers and appeal to a diverse range of audiences.
Magic Phantom Comedy
HILT black light theatre Prague has been captivating audiences all over the world with their mesmerizing show "Magic Phantom Comedy". Under the direction of Theodor Hoidekr, this renowned theatre has gained international success, recently selling out Teatro Nacional in Guatemala. Their unique blend of black light techniques and comedy has earned them two prestigious awards at the World Theatre Olympics 2018 in India.
Black light theatre from Prague comes to Delhi
Prague is a recognised centre for black light theatre. The group, however, brought modern influences to the long- established art form and used UV lighting and other techniques
