ABSTRACT
This study analyses the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on theatres in the Czech Republic. The pandemic has had a significant impact on performing arts, especially on theatres, and has tested the resilience of the entire system. This study compares the different levels of its impact during the first wave of measures taken to avoid the spread of the virus and the response of the hundred and forty-six theatres in the Czech Republic to the crisis. Using data from a broad survey and applying multiple correlation analyses, the study seeks relationships between selected indicators (finance, HR, artistic performance) before the crisis and the level of impact during the early stage of the pandemic. It demonstrates that theatres founded by the state or by local governments were more resilient to the initial, immediate impact of COVID-19 and were better prepared for possible economic shocks than non-profit theatres. Study results also confirm that the pandemic affected non-profit theatres severely. The study provides rare empirical data on the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. © 2023 Journal of Competitiveness. All rights reserved.