Essen’s premier venue for ballet, opera and gala events is the Aalto-Musiktheater, a modernist masterpiece in the city’s southern quarter. Renowned for its sleek architectural design and asymmetrical auditorium, the Aalto-Musiktheater was unveiled in 1988 after nearly two decades of planning. See some of the city’s most significant productions of ballet, opera and other performing arts or attend other events that are regularly held in the elegant venue. Admire the building’s magnificent façade and learn about the visionary architect who created the design.
A competition for the design of Essen’s newest cultural hub was held in 1959, with the unanimous winner being the Finnish architect Alvar Aalto. After delays and 5 years of construction, the building was finally opened to the public in 1988, 12 years after the death of its architect. Check out the light-colored granite façade and intriguing curvature of the building’s outer shell. Walk into the grand foyer and admire the building’s elegant interior, which incorporates serpentine horizontal lines.
Mingle with other theatergoers and enjoy a pre-show drink at the bar before making your way into the spacious auditorium. This venue has a capacity for 1,100 patrons and an intriguing asymmetrical design embellished by white and indigo-blue tones. Take your seat and be entranced by the auditorium’s world-class acoustics. You might watch renditions of time-honored favorites such as The Nutcracker and Carmen or see intriguing adaptations of well-known operas.
During the intermission, make your way to the Aalto-Musiktheater cafeteria for a snack or drink. After the show, choose one of the atmospheric restaurants and bars in the surrounding streets to have a relaxing drink or a meal.
The Aalto-Musiktheater is located overlooking the spacious Stadtgarten (City Park) in the southern district of Essen. The theater is a short walk or tram ride from Essen’s main railway station. While in the area, check out the pretty Stadtgarten or the neighboring venue, Philharmonie Essen. Purchase your tickets to the Aalto-Musiktheater online or at the theater’s box office.
