Felsenbühne Rathen
Sachsen
Felsenbühne Rathen, located in Saxon Switzerland, Germany, is one of Europe's most beautiful natural open-air theatres. Nestled in a hollow at the upper end of the Wehlgrund valley, it is framed by the striking rocks Kleine Gans and Großer Wehrturm beneath the iconic Bastei cliffs and Neurathen Castle ruins. Established in 1936 inspired by the Thingbewegung movement, the theatre offers nearly 2,000 seats and has been a cultural landmark hosting plays, concerts, and especially the renowned Karl May festivals since 1938. After a wartime hiatus, performances resumed in 1946, with the Landesbühnen Sachsen company managing the stage since 1954. The theatre's repertoire spans classical and modern works, including traditional pieces like "Der Freischütz," "Hänsel and Gretel," and "Carmina Burana." A major modernization between 2019 and 2022 enhanced its facilities with a new functional building, larger stage, and visible orchestra pavilion, improving the visitor experience while preserving its natural charm. The dramatic sandstone cliffs serve as a breathtaking backdrop that uniquely blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for theatre lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to book tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer season from May to September when up to 90 performances are held. The theatre offers various discounts including for children, students, and groups such as schools and kindergartens. Arriving early to enjoy the scenic surroundings and purchasing tickets at the official webshop or authorized resellers can enhance the experience. Evening performances may include a small surcharge for tickets bought at the box office. The best time to visit is during the summer months when the full program is available.
Interesting facts
- •The theatre seats approximately 2,000 visitors, with 1,800 seats available for sale.
- •It is uniquely situated between the Kleine Gans and Großer Wehrturm rock formations, providing a dramatic natural backdrop.
- •The theatre was inspired by the Thingbewegung movement, a German cultural movement emphasizing open-air performances.
- •Karl May Festivals, celebrating the works of the famous German author, have been a tradition here since 1938, resuming after WWII in 1984.
- •The theatre served as a filming location for the 1984 episode "Ein Schritt zu weit" of the DDR television series Polizeiruf 110.
- •Between 2019 and 2022, the theatre underwent an 18.4 million euro modernization, including a new functional building and visible orchestra pavilion.
History
The Felsenbühne Rathen was founded in 1936 by the municipality of Rathen, inspired by the ideas of the Thingbewegung movement, to stage plays and concerts in a natural setting.
It opened with the play "Basteispiel" by Kurt Arnold Findeisen and quickly became a cultural hub, hosting the first Karl May festivals in 1938.
The theatre was closed during World War II but reopened in 1946.
Since 1954, the Landesbühnen Sachsen has managed the stage, continuing the tradition of Karl May adaptations and expanding the repertoire.
A significant renovation was completed between 2019 and 2022, modernizing facilities and expanding the stage area while maintaining the natural ambiance.
Place Guide
Main Stage Area1936
The heart of Felsenbühne Rathen, this natural stone stage is set against the dramatic sandstone cliffs of the Wehlgrund valley, providing an immersive backdrop that enhances every performance.
Orchestra Pavilion2022
A modern addition completed during the 2019-2022 renovation, this pavilion allows the orchestra to be visible to the audience, improving acoustics and engagement compared to the previous orchestra pit below the stage.
Functional Building2022
This new building includes updated dressing rooms, technical rooms, and storage facilities, constructed with larch wood from the Tharandt Forest to blend with the natural surroundings.
Surrounding Rock Formations
The Kleine Gans and Großer Wehrturm rocks frame the stage, creating a unique natural amphitheatre setting that is integral to the theatre's atmosphere and visual identity.
Contact
Phone: 035024 7770
