Capital of Culture effect: More interest in Theater Chemnitz

The supra-regional attention for Chemnitz as European Capital of Culture 2025 is giving the city's five-division theater a boost. An upswing in demand and ticket orders is clearly noticeable, said General Director Christoph Dittrich. "I assume that this has only just begun." Therefore, meaningful figures, for example on capacity utilization, will only be possible in a few months' time. Guests included a number of groups from other German cities and abroad.

"Sonic Tales": Industrial sounds meet classical music

In the meantime, the theater is setting its sights on the next season. In addition to already well-known major productions in the Capital of Culture year, such as the world premiere of the opera "Rummelplatz" based on the novel by Werner Bräunig in September, Dittrich is focusing on a program "from captivating dramas to innovative productions and musical highlights".

These include classics such as Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol" and Mozart's "Don Giovanni", but also a theater project on child transports in 1938/1939, when thousands of Jewish children from Nazi Germany were taken abroad to safety. Many of them never saw their parents again.

A symphony concert in November will bring the soundscape of Chemnitz industry to life. According to the new program, "the boundaries between classical music, industrial sounds and modern electronics will merge into a rhythmic sound experience". "Sonic Tales of Industry" is the title of the world premiere by Jonas Urbat.

Frustration at the acting ensemble

After the Capital of Culture year, Chemnitz will host the renowned "Theater der Welt" festival in 2026. Dittrich announced that 40 to 50 international guest performances will be offered. However, according to drama director Carsten Knödler, the Chemnitz drama ensemble itself is increasingly frustrated by the lack of prospects for its future venue.

The refurbishment of the Schauspielhaus is on hold due to escalating costs and performances are taking place in an alternative venue. "We are pressing for a decision to be made," emphasized General Director Dittrich. "It urgently needs a full stage."