Welcome to a theatre, art centre, and exhibition space all in one; the Volksbühne. The theater company is located in the lively city of Berlin Germany and is now associated with avant-garde, experimental theatre. In this blog post, we will unfold the historical background of Volksbühne as well as some of the technical and architectural features of the theatre and describe the most popular productions presented by Volksbühne theatre and its impact. Let’s dive in!
Volksbühne – Brief History
Of the history of performance art theatre, Volksbühne has been in existence for more than a century since its formation in 1914. Its name, literally means ‘People’s Theater,’ in English, which was probably coined in view of it being set up to offer performances to the public at a reasonable price. Over the year, the theatre has remained very progressive, being at times radical in smiting the conventional roles of theatre and attending to many forms of art.
The architectural design of the building is unique.
Indeed, the piece de resistance of Volksbühne is its architecture. The theater as the building was designed by Oskar Kaufmann is distinguished by an ostentative façade and an exquisite combination of the ideas of modernism and expressionism. The grand central staircase topped with the chandelier establishing the great atmosphere for the show one finds inside.
It is important to note, that the main stage of Volksbühne known as “Großes Haus” has an irregular shape. Such a conscious deviation from standard configurations is pursued by the creators of interiors in order to actively engage the performance artist and the spectator. Such detailed arching provides the kind of environment and the feel that a theater should have as a performance center.
Effects of Productions of Volksbühne
It has made a name for itself all over the world for its edgy sociopolitical commentaries. It has been a venue to great directors, actors and artists, for them to make their mark in theatrical industry.
These are the notes, which summarize Bertold Brecht and the Epic Theater:
Meanwhile, the Volksbühne was able to find its prototype and affiliate itself with one of the key masters of European renovation theatre the 1920s and the 1930s – Bertolt Brecht. Epic Theatre was one of Brecht’s championships with intent to address the culture of the audience merely consuming the art. As for Brecht’s stay at the theatre of Volksbühne he demonstrated in his creations – “The Threepenny Opera” critical activity and conscious attitude of the spectators.
Spectacular performances that correspond to creative contemporary Dance.
Yet, the Volksbühne’s modernity goes beyond its post-war productions Its dramatic conception is comparatively contemporary. In the last decade or so, the theatre has become more innovative opening up to performances created by artists from other fields, techniques and devices. The above innovative approaches have been achieving audiences from all over the globe making Volksbühne as one of the main modern theatre pioneers.
Visiting Volksbühne
If you are thinking to visit Berlin, Volksbühne is a must-visit place for you If you are a theater lover or a culture vulture. One can encounter a rich Theatrical Repertoire – play, dance, opera, non traditional… etc. We must not forget that Volksbühne stages a number events and allows audience participation, as well as offering training to artists.
When planning for a show, a visit to a theater’s website will help one determine schedules of the shows and whether or not tickets for sale are available. There is nothing surprising in that fact, as Volksbühne has different ticket prices so every person can watch a play. Always remember to purchase your tickets early especially for people favorite shows.
Getting to Volksbühne
Volksbühne has been designed in the very middle of Berlin; more precisely it is situated in Mitte district. Its location is Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz 1-9, 10178 Berlin. It is conveniently placed with regards to the tram and subway connection, which are situated close to the building of the theater. If you would like to drive, there is both metered parking along the curb and parking garages nearby.
Getting to Know the Neighborhood
There are many things at Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz other than Volksbühne theatre and all of them contribute to the matter. Spend a few minutes and look at the area, where many beautiful clubs, bars and restaurants are located. There are also other cultural places near it – the Berlin Wall Memorial, Alexanderplatz. Live Berlin and the rejoicing of it is here!
Conclusion
Today Volksbühne symbolizes one of the most vivid theatre stages in Berlin and the area of the city constantly breaks the stereotypes and creates new definitions in the sphere of arts. Over time, owing to its history and architectural features as well as programs produced, it remains relevant as source of motivation to both public and artists. Regardless of whether you are interested in theaters or just a tourist trying to learn more about the cultural offer in Berlin, the visit to Volksbühne is prove useful and revealing.
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