Students of Budapest University of Technology and Economics (BME) started out Szkéné Theatre in the 1970s. Since then Szkéné Theatre has been working in the central building of BME, as a venue for performances of many contemporary theatric endeavours by independent companies. Out of a students' theatre, Szkéné Theatre has, over time, matured into a choice theatre hosting progressive companies in Hungary.
Szkéné Theatrehouses performances by dance and theatrical workshops, festivals, performances as well as concerts and exhibitions, and is seen as a hub for artists who sensitively react to contemporary social changes. Its such role is proved by the many festival awards, prizes, professionals' acknowledgements and critiques – but, above all, by the audience that attends daily. Youths of a similar mind are addressed and invited in this receiving theatre by artists, actors, dancers, directors and choreographers with an open spirit.
Szkéné, a theatre internationally known for presenting the latest Hungarian progressive contemporary theatric plays, furnishes most shows with English subtitles, which comes in handy for foreign students or visitors from abroad. Here is where Scallabouche Company, too, a theatrical improvization workshop performing in English, is based. Plays by dance theatres or theatres of movement and gesture, too, are sought after by native or non-native English speakers staying in Hungary. After the shows, artists and members of the audience as well as friends can meet to have a chat over the plays just seen, so they get inspiration. The conversations happen in the lobby café area that also gives room for exhibitions and concerts.
