Returning to the Land of Fairytales: An Actor revisits Zlatovláska
After more than five decades, a beloved actor is stepping back into the world of fairytales. This January, viewers will see him once again in “Zlatovláska” (Goldenhair), but this time, he’s traded his role as the cook, Jiřík, for the crown of a king. While the core message of Karel jaromír Erben’s tale remains, the journey to this point is refreshingly new. “I was a little apprehensive that the creators of this new film might try to replicate the success of the 1973 television adaptation,” the actor admitted. ”However, thanks to Lucie konášová’s script, director Jan Těšitel has found a truly sensitive and original way to tell this timeless story. I believe audiences will embrace it.” He prefers to keep further plot details under wraps, leaving viewers with a sense of delightful anticipation.A Nostalgic Return to a Beloved Classic
Reflecting on his time as Jiřík, the actor fondly remembers the relaxed atmosphere of the original filming. “today,filmmaking is much more hectic. Life itself has sped up,” he observed. The memories of Angela Michajlov’s beautiful score and Eduard Krečmar’s lyrics, which he sang in the film, still resonate with him. “Friends often tease me that their grandchildren play those songs on repeat,” he shared with a chuckle. “I was 24 then. A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since. I’ve done so much work, including around three fairytale films a year. Back then,new fairy tales for children premiered on television every Saturday and Sunday. Today,Czech television only airs one new fairytale on Christmas Eve and one on Easter.”The Enduring Magic of Fairytales
Asked about his fondness for the fairytale genre, the actor said, “I’ve always loved that its a genre that transcends generations. But I feel like something is missing from modern fairytales—their heart. The ones we made back then felt more genuine.”A Royal Romance: Petr Štáfeck on “Zlatovláska” and Finding Love on Set
Petr Štáfeck, a renowned Czech actor known for his captivating performances, reflects on his experience working on the classic fairytale “Zlatovláska” (Goldilocks). Štáfeck played the King in this beloved adaptation,sharing the screen with Jasmína Houf as the titular Zlatovláska. The film holds a special place in Štáfeck’s heart,not only for its enchanting story but also as it marked the beginning of his relationship with the talented director Vlastimil Janečková. “We had known each other for a long time and had collaborated on numerous projects,” Štáfeck recalls. “We understood each other perfectly. She had an extraordinary ability to guide actors.” Interestingly, Štáfeck points out the unusual nature of their relationship dynamic in the world of filmmaking. “It’s quite common for actresses to marry directors,” he notes, “but the reverse is less frequent. In fact, you’re the first person to point that out to me. There weren’t that many female directors back then.”
Actor Petr Štépánek will take on the role of the king in the upcoming remake of the classic fairy tale,Zlatovláska (Goldilocks),slated for release in January. The titular role will be played by Jasmína Houf.
Foto: Jiří Jevický
Polemizujete s režiséry, když se vám něco nezdá?
“When something doesn’t sit right with me, I absolutely voice my opinions,” Štépánek strongly affirmed.
A Love for Dialog: Stage Veteran Reflects on Collaborations and the Magic of Christmas
He thrives on the exchange of ideas, the creative dance between actor and director. “I love dialogue,” he says. “The director has a vision, I might have another, and it’s about finding that intersection where we understand each other. Sometimes you discover something completely new together.” He has experienced uncompromising directors, but that approach never suited him. “You feel like a puppet then,” he explains. “I dislike it when a director disrespects the source material – the ‘Shakespeare was a fool, we’ll do it better’ mentality. It’s neither Shakespeare nor prosperous.”A Director’s Guiding Hand
When asked about directors who resonated with him, respecting the text while fostering open dialogue, he points to Miroslav Macháček. “All the productions I did with him at the National Theatre were enriching experiences. He would always start rehearsals by essentially ‘performing’ the play for us, sharing his vision and the path he envisioned. It’s frustrating when a director comes in without a clear direction, trying things one way today and another tomorrow, constantly searching.” Among contemporary directors, he holds Ondřej Sokol in high regard, having collaborated with him several times at Studio DVA. “I only wish he had more time for directing now, as he’s very busy with other commitments,” he says. “He directed us both in the thrilling drama ‘Misery’ alongside Zlatá Adamovská, and now we’re sharing the stage in the comedic ‘Bez roucha,’ a play set in the world of theatre.”Remembering the Magic of Childhood Christmases
Reflecting on the Christmas season, he recalls a childhood filled with a unique serenity. “It was a time when the everyday rhythm slowed down, the family functioned differently, more peacefully,” he remembers. “It was a holiday primarily for children, starting with St. Nicholas Day. I still admire parents today, especially during times of scarcity, for managing to find those special treats: oranges, gingerbread cookies, and other delicacies that brought joy to their children.”Growing up in the 1950s, Christmas Eve held a special kind of magic. For us kids, the sight of buráks, those coveted Czech pastries, appearing on the windowsill was nothing short of a miracle. We’d scurry to the window, noses pressed against the glass, eager to get our hands on those delicious treats.
Buráks: A Christmas Treasure
My siblings and I would share a bedroom, and whoever woke first would be the first to check for the buráks. Finding them always felt like a victory. We’d pile into bed, sharing the sweet pastries while relishing that unforgettable taste.
A Festive Feast
My mother was an incredible cook. Her fish soup was legendary, and she always baked mountains of delicious Christmas cookies. We, of course, couldn’t resist indulging, much to her amusement. One year, she tried to outsmart us by baking in the middle of the night and hiding the fresh cookies. But the aroma was too potent to ignore, and we quickly found her hidden treasures. she ended up baking several batches just to satisfy our cravings!
My father took care of preparing the carp, a tradition I later inherited.We’d decorate the house with festive porcelain and linens, dress in our finest clothes, and sing carols before heading to church.
A Rebellious Moment
“Víte, od čeho mám tady pod bradou jizvu? Že jsem nechtěl odříkávat Andělíčku, můj strážníčku…” My rebellious streak surfaced during prayer one day.I decided I wouldn’t recite the traditional Angel Guardian prayer. When my mother gently reminded me to pray, I wanted to show her how much of a rebel I was. So,I flung myself onto the bed,missing the mattress and hitting the headboard. That rebellious act earned me a scar beneath my chin!
The Warmth of Tradition: Vánoce Through the Years
For a man who embodies the spirit of Prague, Vánoce has always held a special place in his heart. While each chapter of his life brought new traditions, the core values remained constant: a time for reflection, gratitude, and shared moments with loved ones. He recalls those early days on Malá Strana,extending a warm invitation to colleagues facing personal hardships,recognizing that solitude during the holidays is a burden best shared.A Tapestry of Traditions
His first marriage, a whirlwind romance with Regina Rázlová, lasted only a year. Though brief, it held no significant holiday memories. His union with acclaimed director Vlasta Janečková, lasting over three decades, brought a rich tapestry of moravian customs to his Prague life. “She created truly beautiful Christmases,” he fondly remembers. “Originally from Olomouc, she brought so many traditions unknown to me as a Praguer. She loved to sing, and embraced my mother’s recipes, making our Christmases welcoming to older colleagues we often invited.” Their festive gatherings extended beyond their home. “We used to visit Bohoušek Záhorský for his snails,” he recounts with a smile. “Or Josef Němec’s atelier, a painter and restorer who would host ‘open house’ on Christmas Day, exclusively for men. It was an incredible gathering, attracting everyone from Waldy Matuška to champion racer František Šťastný, artists, and musicians. Even Václav Taušek, a surgeon from České Budějovice, would make the trip.” He acknowledges with a chuckle, “We sometimes overindulged in the festive spirit, but those memories remain incredibly dear to me.” Tennis star Petr Štěpánek and his wife, Zlatá Adamovská, share a remarkable bond. Their love story isn’t just about romance; it’s also fueled by a shared passion for tennis, a thirst for adventure through travel, and a love for fine wine.
Christmas Traditions and the Evolution of Celebrations
Actor Michal Feuereislová reflects on the changing landscape of Christmas traditions, noting a shift from communal gatherings to more solitary celebrations. “Today’s world is more about individuals. I remember when people wanted to spend the Christmas season together,” he reminisces. “We didn’t have to discuss profound matters. Politics wasn’t a concern. We’d grumble about the regime, and that was the end of it.”Family Traditions and Festive fare
For the past twelve years, Feuereislová has celebrated Christmas with his third wife, actress Zlata Adamovská. “The focus is now on the grandchildren,” he explains. “Zlata’s daughter, Bára, has two children, and rightfully so, everything revolves around them. But the abundance of gifts for the children sometimes seems excessive to me. I’m not sure they even appreciate them all. I wouldn’t say I grew up in a poor family, but I never received that many gifts. I cherished the ones I did have.” “The culinary aspect is different too,” he adds. “I’m the only one who still eats carp. The rest of the family prefers seafood, which is fine by me. I enjoy it too, especially fresh, by the sea.”
The Art of Recitation
The conversation turns to Feuereislová’s renowned recitation skills. “When did you last recite a poem?”Veteran Czech actor recently received the Crystal Rose award in Poděbrady for his exceptional performances in poetry and prose. Reflecting on his career, he shared his lifelong love for Antonín Sova’s “Smetanovo kvarteto,” a poem that deeply resonates with his personal experiences.
The actor lamented the decline of poetry in public spaces, noting the scarcity of both staged performances and genre-specific productions. He expressed his concerns to the general director of Czech radio, who acknowledged the complexity of the situation. The actor observed a similar trend in Czech Television, where archive content and reruns have largely replaced new poetic works.
He firmly believes that poetry recitation holds a vital place in the modern world, comparing it to musical interpretation. Just as a musical score requires an artist to bring it to life,poetry needs a performer to infuse it with emotion and meaning. He has encountered countless beautiful verses, both Czech and international, and considers poetry an integral part of his profession. He wonders if others still appreciate the art form in our fast-paced society, acknowledging the declining interest in physical poetry books.
when asked about the pinnacle of his theatrical career, the actor highlighted his time at the National Theatre. He cherishes the opportunity to have begun his journey alongside esteemed actors like Karel Hoger, Ladislav Pešek, Dana Medřická, Bohuslav Záhorský, Vlasta Fabianová, and Jan Pivec. He smoothly transitioned from one role to another, embracing the challenges and opportunities each presented.
“na jevišti vám nepomůže sebeslavnější jméno. Buď to zvládnete sám a obstojíte, nebo ne. Mezi tím nic není,”
says Jiří Štěpánku, reflecting on his decades-long career at the National Theatre in Prague. Following in the footsteps of his famed father, Zdeněk Štěpánka, was never a guarantee of success.
A Legacy on the Stage
Jiří Štěpánka’s journey in theatre began in his early twenties. He joined the National Theatre in a period of transition, when younger performers were gaining prominence. “I lived with the idea that only a fully formed actor could join the National Theatre,” Štěpánka recalls. “In the 1960s, when I started going to the theatre, there was a shift. more opportunities opened up for the younger generation. Romeo and Juliet were no longer played by actors in their thirties.”
His brother, Martin, had the unique experience of sharing the stage with their father in 1968’s production of “The New Converts” by Friedrich Dürrenmatt. Sadly, Zdeněk Štěpánka passed away a few months later, leaving behind a profound impact on Czech theatre. Jiří Štěpánka began rehearsals for the National Theatre a year later.
A New Direction
In 1993, after a successful tenure, Jiří Štěpánka made the challenging decision to leave the National Theatre. “The management decided to pursue a different artistic direction,” he explains. “It was no longer the theatre I loved, with its beautiful large stage. I wasn’t the first, nor the only one to leave at that time. I’ve never regretted the decision.”
Carrying the Torch
Despite not performing alongside his father at the National Theatre, jiří Štěpánka carries on his legacy with dedication and talent.He has carved out his own path, proving that success on the stage comes from hard work and individual merit, not simply family ties.
Czech actor Petr Štěpánek is set to take the stage in a new comedy, featuring alongside actress Lucie Pernetová.
The production will mark another exciting chapter in Štěpánek’s career, known for his versatility and compelling stage presence.
further information about the play, including the title and premiere date, will be released soon.
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Actor Josef Štěpánek, known for his compelling stage presence and iconic roles, recently reflected on his multifaceted career and personal life.
Štěpánek reminisced about his time collaborating with his brother, Martin Štěpánek, in the National Theatre’s dramatic ensemble. “We frequently performed together until his departure in 1973,” he shared.
Martin, described as a rebellious spirit who often voiced his opinions, faced the non-renewal of his contract due to his outspoken nature. He subsequently joined the Činoherní klub and later the Vinohrady Theatre before emigrating in 1981.
“His decision to emigrate surprised me then, and it still does today,” Štěpánek admitted. “Although I didn’t necessarily agree with his choice,I respected it. I prefer not to delve into the details, but it had repercussions for those of us who remained.”
Reflecting on his present life, Štěpánek described a welcome shift in pace. “I’m no longer constantly jumping from one role to another. This allows me more time for travel and spending time with friends.”
When asked about his relationship with his brother during Martin’s exile, Štěpánek recounted a poignant phone call. “The first time we spoke after his emigration was when I called to inform him of our mother’s passing,” he revealed. “It’s a memory I prefer not to revisit.”
The Wonders of Ancient Civilizations
for Czech actor, Miroslav Zounar, life is a tapestry woven with the threads of diverse passions. From captivating audiences on stage and screen to exploring the mysteries of ancient civilizations, Zounar’s curiosity knows no bounds. he juggles a demanding acting schedule, appearing in theatre productions in Prague and Pardubice while also lending his voice to audiobooks and dubbing projects. Fans can also catch him reprising his beloved role in the long-running Czech television series, “Ordinance in Pink Garden”.
A Passion for Travel
When not immersed in the world of acting, zounar indulges his love for travel, often embarking on adventures with his wife, Zlatá. ”We’re making up for lost time,” he shares, reflecting on their recent expedition to Egypt.
“It was a challenging trip, with constant motion and even internal flights, but we witnessed incredible sights. the pyramids, the valley of the Kings, interesting museums, and magnificent temples in Luxor, Karnak, and Abu simbel left us in awe,” Zounar explains. The grandeur and preservation of these ancient structures, built four thousand years ago, fill him with wonder. He marvels at the ingenuity of the past: “How did they manage to construct such marvels? And how is it that surgical instruments from that era are remarkably similar to those used today?”
Zounar’s thirst for knowledge extends to other corners of the globe.He recalls a visit to Easter Island, where the colossal Moai statues, weighing dozens of tons, stand sentinel across the landscape. “Who moved these statues and how? These are the things that fascinate me. I have an insatiable desire to keep learning and discovering new things.”
Petr Štěpánek: Hvězda českých pohádek
Petr Štěpánek stands out as a beloved figure in the world of Czech cinema, especially known for his enchanting portrayal of characters in numerous fairy tales. With over forty fairy-tale films to his credit, he has captured the hearts of audiences across generations. One such enchanting production is “The Secret of Old bamboo 2,” released in 2022.
A Connoisseur of Wine
“You’re known for your knowledge of wine. what kind do you prefer?”
Petr Štěpánek: Herec s Vínnou Duší
Petr Štěpánek, narozený 2. října 1948 hereckému páru Zdeňku Štěpánkovi a Soně Grossové, je talentovaný herec, který zdědil herecký talent po svém otci a nevlastní sestře Janě. Jeho bratr Martin, také herec, bohužel zemřel v roce 2010. Petr absolvoval DAMU a zahájil svou kariéru v Národním divadle v roce 1969. Po odchodu v roce 1993 působil v Hudebním divadle Karlín, Rokoku, Divadle Ungelt a Studiu DVA. Od roku 2008 familiarizační tvář Ordinace v růžové zahradě, kde se seznámil se svou třetí manželkou, Zlatou Adamovskou. Mimo herectví má Petr Štěpánek velkou vášeň pro víno. Ačkoliv se sebe nepovažuje za znalce, prohlašuje se za milovníka dobrého vína. Jeho preference se mění v závislosti na náladě a ročním období. “To bychom se museli bavit o jednotlivých typech vína a museli bychom se bavit hodně dlouho. Záleží na odrůdě, chuti, náladě, počasí. Znalec nejsem, ale milovník dobrého vína určitě,” says Štěpánek. V poslední době ho zaujala bílá vína z rakouského údolí Wachau podél Dunaje. Z červených vín si oblíbil toskánská vína, kde s manželkou Zlatoou trávili dovolenou na jaře. Loni ochutnávali vína v Chile a letos se těší na sicilská minerální bílá vína z vinic pod Etnou. Svá srdce si stále drží francouzská vína,zejména z Vacqueyras a Gigondas. A pro růžové víno by vyrazil do provensálského Bandolu.Sdílí Štěpánek vinný vkus se Zlatou?
“Ano, i když já mám rád tichá vína a Zlata spíš preferuje bublinky. V Champagni jsme si to ale užívali společně,” prozrazuje Štěpánek.Being a Gemini, you’re known for having many sides.That’s certainly true for Sára and Martin Donutilovi, a fascinating couple who embody the complex and multifaceted nature of their zodiac sign.
“we are both Geminis, so there are several personalities in one,” Sára confessed, revealing a glimpse into the dynamic that drives their relationship.
A Different Viewpoint on Correctness
Simultaneously occurring, musician Chili Ta shared her thoughts on the importance of freedom of expression. “I am not for excessive correctness. It opens the door to censorship,” she stated, sparking a debate about the delicate balance between respect and open dialogue.
Chili Ta encourages thoughtful conversation and challenges us to reconsider the boundaries of acceptable discourse.
