Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin
Experience the magic of the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin, Europe’s largest revue theater, where unique shows featuring over 100 artists on almost 3,000 m² of stage space captivate audiences. From its origins as a market hall to the Great Theater under Max Reinhardt, the Palast boasts a rich history. After demolition, the new Palast emerged in 1984, now presenting captivating shows to nearly 1,900 spectators. Here, tradition and modernity blend in an architectural masterpiece, offering not only entertainment but also social engagement. Secure your tickets for unforgettable events and experience the magic of the Friedrichstadt-Palast!
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Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin: Europe’s Largest Revue Theater
The Friedrichstadt-Palast, a significant revue theater in Berlin-Mitte, is a cultural landmark renowned for its extravagant shows and unique architecture. With almost 1,900 seats, it is Europe’s largest revue theater, offering spectacular shows with over 100 artists simultaneously on stage on almost 3,000 m² of stage space.
The history of the Palast dates back to the 19th century when Max Reinhardt took over the building, transforming it into a cultural hub. During the GDR era, the Palast was an important stage for major stars and established itself as a venue for international artists. In 1980, the old building had to be closed and later demolished due to foundation problems. A new construction emerged on its current site, equipped with state-of-the-art stage technology.
The shows at the Friedrichstadt-Palast are an impressive blend of ballet, acrobatics, and musicals, presented with cutting-edge technology and innovative effects. Particularly famous is the Kickline, the longest in the world. With more than 300 staff on and behind the stage, a variety of shows are produced every year, attracting around 700,000 guests from all over the world.
The Palast is not only a place of entertainment but also of commitment to societal values. For its 100th anniversary in 2019, the Jewish history of the venue was highlighted, and various projects advocate for tolerance and social justice.
The architecture of the Friedrichstadt-Palast combines Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and classical modernism, presenting itself as a magnificent building representing DDR postmodernism. The understated facade conceals state-of-the-art technology and an impressive stage that hosts grand shows year-round, attracting visitors from around the world.
History of the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin
The Friedrichstadt-Palast in Berlin has a long and fascinating history. Originally built as a market hall on Schiffbauerdamm, it was later converted into a circus and then into the Great Theater under Max Reinhardt. This theater was renowned for its monumental productions and counted artists such as Reinhardt, Hans Poelzig, and Erik Charell among its luminaries. The Nazis closed the theater and used it as an operetta house under the name Theater des Volkes.
After the war, the building was named Friedrichstadt-Palast and became a vaudeville and revue theater. Under various managements and purposes, it experienced highs and lows until it was finally closed and demolished in 1980 due to structural issues. In 1984, the new Friedrichstadt-Palast opened at the same location, continuing the tradition as a significant entertainment center in Berlin.
Friedrichstadt Palast Berlin: New Construction & Architecture
The construction history and architecture of the Friedrichstadt-Palast are fascinating and marked by various developments. Following a municipal decision in 1980, construction began under the direction of architect Erhardt Gißke. Originally intended to use steel, glass, and aluminum, cost considerations led to later opting for reinforced concrete and glass blocks. Construction started in 1981 and lasted almost three years. Prior to the planned opening, the building fell victim to sabotage when power cables were cut, but repairs were made in time.
After the fall of the Berlin Wall, intensive asbestos investigations were conducted, but since the construction collective consciously avoided asbestos-containing materials, there were no restrictions on the operation of the revue theater. The new Friedrichstadt-Palast, built as a replacement for the old Palast demolished in 1985, is located in the historic Spandauer Vorstadt district at Friedrichstraße 107. The building was erected on the foundations of the destroyed barracks of the 2nd Guard Regiment on foot.
The architecture of the new Palast is characterized by structured facade elements and rounded arches. Inside, elements of the old Palast such as the vestibule and chandeliers are recognizable. The grand hall accommodates 1895 spectators and features the world’s largest theater stage and a retractable water basin for spectacular shows. The Friedrichstadt-Palast Ballet, consisting of 60 dancers, forms one of the longest kicklines in the world.
In the 1990s, the revue theater became known as the “Friedrichstadtpalast.” In 2011, the exterior facilities were redesigned to emphasize the architecture, and the foyer and Claire Waldoff Square were given a new design, including the reconstruction of a historic chandelier.
Visitor Information
Address
Friedrichstraße 107, 10117 Berlin
Opening Hours
Theater Box Office Monday to Sunday
1:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Ticket Hotline Monday to Sunday
9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin: Tickets & Tours
Tickets for events at the Friedrichstadt Palast are available, among others, at Eventim. For the current show “Falling in Love,” you can get tickets here.
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