During this period, which was mostly characterized by the absence of a permanent theatre troupe, it was due to local amateurs that the theatrical life in Split was maintained and kept alive. A number of guest performances at the end of the 19th century, as well as the foundation of a cultural association called "The Slavic Progress", made the citizens of Split increasingly interested in the theatre. The first recorded amateur play was performed by the afore mentioned company in 1888, and the programme consisted of two one-act plays by Kosta Trifković.

The so-called "Dilettante Association" was established in 1892 and was to remain active performing plays until 1918. It should be noted that the scenery was at that time designed by distinguished painters, Emanuel Vidović being one of the many. The leading Croatian actors of that time, especially tragedians like Andrija Fijan, Marija Ružička-Strozzi and Ljerka Šram, performed on the stage in Split as guest artists. As for the repertoire, it comprised some of the finest contemporary Croatian plays, and some of the stage music was composed by renowned composers, Josip Hatze being the best known among them.

After the "National Theatre for Dalmatia" had been disbanded in 1928, the Split Theatre Company was almost immediately established and, under the leadership of the distinguished composer, librettist and conductor Ivo Tijardović, brought together the most significant figures of Split cultural life, initiating varied stage activities. Since there were virtually no professionals, guest performances made up a considerable part of the theatrical life, and guest theatre companies from Notrh Croatian towns should be particularly pointed out. When the Split Theatre Company stopped working in 1936, the theatrical life was nevertheless resumed. This time it was done by the "Split Theatrical Volunteers", who staged their performances in the nearby Franciscan monastery.