NHK Cultural Centre

Located in the very centre of the city, at the landmark 1 Troykata Square, the Cultural Centre is a key gathering place with more than 40 years of history. Thanks to its strategic location and spatial variety, it has firmly established itself as a venue of enormous public importance. Since June 2012 the building has been managed by the municipal enterprise Summer Theatre, Festivals and Concerts.

History and architectural heritage

The building opened its doors in 1975 as the Cultural Centre of the Neftochim petrochemical plant. Designed by the team of Prof. Arch. Todor Krastev, Arch. Chonkov and Arch. Nyagolova, its architecture is a striking example of socialist modernism, distinguished by clean, balanced volumes and a clear functional structure. For decades it was the main driving force of the city's artistic spirit. In 2012 the oil company Lukoil Neftochim donated it to the Municipality of Burgas free of charge.

Modernisation and a new interpretation

To meet the need for modern, flexible and accessible cultural spaces, an architectural renovation competition was held in 2014, won by Studio Moto. The aim of the redesign was to create a modern and memorable architectural image in harmony with the urban environment while respecting the history of the site. The large-scale reconstruction and energy-efficiency project was completed in 2020. It was funded jointly by the Regions in Growth operational programme (2014–2020), the Urban Development Fund and municipal resources.

Spaces and possibilities

Today the fully transformed complex offers a rich palette of spaces for business and cultural events.

Toncho Rusev Hall: The largest hall in the complex seats 514 and features an orchestra pit and a modern stage with a revolving mechanism.

Multifunctional halls: There are 8 fully renovated halls in total. Among them is the spacious Chamber Hall, which can also function as a gallery. Two more halls (135 and 85 sq m) were built in the new extension. All of them are equipped with professional sound systems, blackout options, mirrors and ballet barres.

Additional areas: The building has an inner courtyard with an open-air stage, dedicated music and painting studios, and fully renovated dressing rooms with special lighting for the artists' comfort. The spacious foyers have been turned into adaptable zones with large screens for video presentations and structures for hanging paintings.

Accessibility

For easy movement, two lifts have been installed (in the north and south wings) and two internal walkways built, providing access to every part of the building.

The NHK Cultural Centre offers excellent facilities and rents out spaces for a wide range of initiatives — from theatre productions, concerts and film screenings to business meetings, conferences, exhibitions, sports training and art workshops. It is a true, vibrant hub that brings together art, business and people in the everyday life of Burgas.