The musical Cabaret, directed and choreographed by Leo Mujić and conducted by Ivan Josip Skender, has won the 2026 Zlatni Studio Award for Best Theatre Production. The award ceremony took place on the new HNK2 stage, which has quickly established itself as a vibrant new hub of theatre life.

On this occasion, the General Manager of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, Dr Iva Hraste-Sočo, stated: “I would like to thank Jutarnji list, the expert jury, and especially the audience, whose votes recognised Cabaret as the best production. This award holds particular value as it comes directly from our spectators. Cabaret is the first production on our new HNK2 stage, a stage generations of theatre artists have dreamed of, and stands as a powerful symbol of the unity of Drama, Opera and Ballet with the strong support of our Technical Department and all professional services. It clearly points to the direction in which the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb is moving.”

The musical Cabaret, directed and choreographed by Leo Mujić, brought together all three ensembles of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb - Drama, Opera and Ballet - and has emerged as one of the most acclaimed productions of the season. Since its premiere, Cabaret has attracted strong interest of the audience and sold-out performances months in advance. It will return to the stage in March and April.

Alongside the award for Best Theatre Production, Nina Violić, Drama principal of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, received the Zlatni Studio Award for Best Film Actress for her role as Saša in the film Good Children.

Members of the Croatian National Theatre Ballet in Zagreb performed in the entertainment programme of the ceremony, further marking an evening dedicated to theatrical excellence.

We congratulate all the artists, ensembles and collaborators of the musical Cabaret on this outstanding achievement, as well as Nina Violić, Drama principal of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, on receiving the award.

The Zlatni Studio Award, presented by Jutarnji list, is one of the most important national awards in culture, with winners selected by both readers and an expert jury.