To immerse yourself in the local culture, go see a show at the Theater Paderborn. Sit back while the actors on the stage take you to a different world where fantasy, drama and humor prevail.
This performance venue for the traditional “Westfälische Kammerspiele” dates back to 1957, when a local named Elert Bode started a private theater in the auditorium of the Theodorianum College. In 1968, the theater moved to the Volksbank building in Rathausplatz.
Rebranded as Theater Paderborn – Westfälische Kammerspiele GmbH, the current theater building was completed in 2011. The capacity of its Großes Haus (Main Hall) is 404 seats on three levels. The Studio and Theatertreffcan seat 99 people each.
Order your tickets online or visit the theater’s box office from Tuesdays to Saturdays during the day.
The program includes classical plays, such as pieces by William Shakespeare or a musical interpretation of the adventures of Robin Hood, as well as newly written plays by local directors. The theater also regularly hosts guest speakers, who share their opinions and expertise about the theater industry. The shows and talks are generally held in German.
Arrive early to admire the sleek building and its impressive rounded atrium before the start of the play, concert or talk of your choice. Family shows are usually scheduled in the morning and afternoons, while the shows for adults often feature at night. Longer shows pause for 15 minutes, allowing the audience to order refreshments at the bar.
Check the theater’s events calendar on the official website to see which workshops and festivals might be on during your stay. On some Sundays, children of 8 years and older can attend theater classes.
Situated in Neuer Platz in the city center, Theater Paderborn – Westfälische Kammerspiele is easily reached on foot. There are many popular coffee shops, cafés and restaurants nearby, if you’d like to turn your theater visit into a complete afternoon or evening out.
