Prague, Czech Republic – Sixteen-year-old Kateřina Falbrová has captivated audiences and critics alike, securing the prestigious Czech Lion Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her powerful performance in the film Sbormistr (The Choir Master). The award, presented on March 14, 2026, recognizes Falbrová’s compelling portrayal of a young girl navigating the complexities and dangers within a competitive choral environment. The film itself tackles difficult themes of abuse of power and manipulation, drawing parallels to a real-life scandal that shook the Czech Republic two decades prior.
Sbormistr, directed by Ondřej Provazník, centers on the story of Karolina, a thirteen-year-old girl who, along with her sister, earns a coveted spot in a prestigious choir. However, their dreams are threatened by the manipulative behavior of the choir master, Juraj Loj. Falbrová’s nuanced performance has been lauded for its authenticity and emotional depth, bringing a sensitive and challenging subject matter to the forefront. The film premiered at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival in 2025, where Falbrová received special recognition from the jury for her work.
A Rising Star: Falbrová’s Journey to the Czech Lion
Kateřina Falbrová, born on September 22, 2009, in Ostrava, Czech Republic, is quickly establishing herself as a prominent young talent in Czech cinema. Her breakthrough role in Sbormistr wasn’t simply a stroke of luck; it was the result of a rigorous casting process. According to reports, Falbrová impressed the filmmakers with her natural acting ability and her ability to convey the vulnerability and resilience of her character. The role required her to portray a range of emotions, from youthful enthusiasm to fear and distrust, all while navigating the pressures of a demanding artistic environment.
The Czech Lion Awards, considered the most prestigious film awards in the Czech Republic, celebrated its 2025 ceremony on March 14, 2026. Falbrová’s win places her among a distinguished group of Czech actors and actresses. During her acceptance speech, delivered with visible emotion, Falbrová expressed gratitude to the academy, her family, the film’s crew, and her fellow cast members. She also extended a heartfelt thank you to Provazník and Jiří Kříž, acknowledging their vision and guidance in bringing the story to life.
The Shadow of Bambini di Praga: Inspiration and Responsibility
Sbormistr isn’t simply a fictional narrative; it draws inspiration from the real-life scandal surrounding the Bambini di Praga choir, which erupted in 2004. The case involved allegations of sexual abuse perpetrated by members of the choir’s leadership, sending shockwaves through Czech society. Provazník has openly acknowledged that the Bambini di Praga case served as a catalyst for the film’s creation, prompting him to explore the dynamics of power, manipulation, and the vulnerability of young people within institutional settings.
The original scandal, as reported by various Czech news outlets in 2004, involved accusations against several individuals connected to the renowned children’s choir. The investigation and subsequent legal proceedings brought to light a pattern of abuse and exploitation, leading to convictions and a lasting impact on the Czech cultural landscape. Sbormistr, while not a direct retelling of the Bambini di Praga story, aims to raise awareness about the potential for abuse within seemingly respectable organizations and to provide a voice to those who have been silenced.
Navigating the Emotional Toll of the Role
The filming of Sbormistr was not without its challenges for Falbrová. The young actress has spoken candidly about the emotional toll of portraying a character subjected to manipulative and potentially abusive behavior. In an interview with iDnes.cz, Falbrová revealed that she experienced a period of emotional turmoil following the completion of filming, describing it as a “dark period.” She explained that the intensity of the role, coupled with the attention and scrutiny that came with it, left her feeling overwhelmed and unsettled.
Falbrová described feeling “overstimulated” by the experience of being in the spotlight, with the constant makeup and attention. She found solace in attending a summer camp, where she was able to process her emotions and gain perspective. The actress also acknowledged that some scenes were particularly difficult to film, recalling a scene involving a sauna and a perceived threat from the choir master. She noted that her parents expressed concerns about the scene, and the filming process was fraught with tension. Despite the challenges, Falbrová persevered, ultimately delivering a performance that resonated deeply with audiences and critics.
Beyond Sbormistr: A Bright Future for a Young Talent
Despite the demanding nature of her work on Sbormistr, Falbrová has continued to pursue her education, successfully gaining admission to a gymnasium (high school). She also remains actively involved in extracurricular activities, including scouting and participation in the Kühn Children’s Choir. This demonstrates a commitment to a well-rounded life beyond her burgeoning acting career.
In addition to winning the Czech Lion for Best Actress, Falbrová received a nomination for the Czech Film Critics’ Award for Best Actress in 2025, which she ultimately won in February 2026. She was also nominated for the Czech Lion in the category of Best Actress in a Leading Role. These accolades underscore the widespread recognition of her talent and the impact of her performance in Sbormistr. The film’s success and Falbrová’s individual achievements have sparked conversations about the importance of protecting young people from abuse and the power of cinema to address difficult social issues.
Kateřina Falbrová’s journey is just beginning. With her talent, dedication, and willingness to tackle challenging roles, she is poised to develop into a significant force in Czech cinema and beyond. Her future projects will undoubtedly be watched with great anticipation, as she continues to captivate audiences with her compelling performances and her commitment to meaningful storytelling.
The Czech film industry will be closely watching Falbrová’s career trajectory as she navigates the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Her success serves as an inspiration to aspiring young actors and actresses, demonstrating that talent, hard work, and a commitment to artistic integrity can lead to remarkable achievements. The next scheduled event related to the Czech Lion Awards is the announcement of the 2027 nominations, expected in early 2027.
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