The Best of Hans Zimmer
in Concert
Large Orchestra, Soloists & Choir of the Cinema Festival Symphonics
Artistic Direction: Stephen Ellery

Powerful. Beautiful. Breathtaking. This is how the music of two-time Oscar winner Hans Zimmer can be described. His most famous melodies, from the heroic power of “Gladiator” to the deeply moving harmonies of “The Lion King,” from the melancholic “Rain Man” to the nerve-wracking “Inception,” impressively demonstrate Zimmer’s gift for leading listeners directly to the heart of the film stories.
Zimmer's sense of epic storytelling and his fine feel for the emotional depth of each scene have secured him a permanent place in the hearts of music lovers and moviegoers. His music is much more than a collection of beautiful melodies – it is a universal language that touches, inspires, and connects.
“The Best of Hans Zimmer in Concert” is a tribute to the masterful film composer whose work stands for emotion and goosebumps. The ensemble of soloists, choir, and large orchestra of the Cinema Festival Symphonics masterfully interprets the world of unforgettable compositions that have been shaking cinema halls and making hearts beat for years.
From the imposing intensity of “Pirates of the Caribbean” to the futuristic sound world of “Inception,” the large orchestra, the soloists, and the choir provide an essential experience for fans of film music. Epic and dramatic, as the first notes of “The Dark Knight” fill the room. Tension and action flow through the hall as the powerful sounds of “Mission Impossible” captivate the audience.
Every note that resonates through the concert hall allows the guests to immerse themselves in worlds of film music. The epic and dramatic compositions are enhanced by a breathtaking backdrop of synchronized screen animations and light effects.
“The Best of Hans Zimmer in Concert” is a unique experience full of monumental moments that remain memorable for a long time. A true spectacle that puts Hans Zimmer’s musical triumphs in the spotlight in an impressive and passionate way.

Doors open approx. 1 hour before start

What a debut it was: "Sold Out," was the word last year at the first concert of the Thekenterzett in the Senftöpfchen. It was only logical that the Nippeser trio with accordion, double bass, and vocals is now a guest there for two evenings this session - with a specially rehearsed Senftöpfchen-exclusive program: "Hundert Johr Kölle: eine musikalische Zeitreise."

Connoisseurs of Kölsch music, those who want to become one, as well as convincing outsiders can expect a fine retrospective of a hundred years of Kölsch (carnival) music without any fuss. Because Et Thekenterzett appreciates the quiet tones. Steffi, Heiner, and Winston dedicate themselves to the sounds of Willi Ostermann, Jupp Schmitz, and also bands from the modern era. Et Thekenterzett discovers unknown facets of their classics, and the trio gives some hidden treasures a second chance - mostly cheerful, sometimes touching, always heartwarming and always heartfelt. Just Et Thekenterzett.

Photo: Et Thekenterzett

Admission from 7:30 PM

»heute-show« outdoor reporter Lutz van der Horst presents a romantic comedy with "Konfetti-Blues," like those we usually know from Nick Hornby. Max is in his late 20s, a comedy writer, and searching for his place in life. His path to the big stage and true love is paved with pitfalls, awkward silences after jokes, heartbreak, and disappointments – and the question of whether in the end there can be a happy ending for Max or if his life will forever remain the unfunniest show in the world.

Sold Out

The Beautiful … and he reads!
British humor meets North German rock

When Christina Fry takes the microphone, the stage transforms into a magical place full of sonorous surprises. With a voice as versatile as a Swiss army knife, she sings her way through genres as if she were running a musical marathon. Even the toughest critics must admit: with Fry in action, every event becomes an acoustic adventure!
Opposite her stands the charming Janne Mommsen, who elevates reading to an art form. His voice sounds as if it has had an affair with a page of a book. When he reads, it's as if the words dance by themselves – Mommsen, the linguistic choreographer! His readings are so captivating that one wonders why books haven't always been heard this way.
But that's not all! When Fry and Mommsen come together, their talents merge into a unique show. Fry sings, Mommsen reads, and the audience laughs, cries, and claps in rhythm. It's as if they have found the perfect mix of melody and wit – a bit like a musical comedy smoothie that you want to enjoy again and again.
In their performances, it's not just about the art, but also about the magic of connection between artists and the audience. Fry and Mommsen create an atmosphere where you feel like part of a big, crazy family that indulges each other with music and stories.

Doors open at 7:30 PM

Game of Thrones & House of the Dragon
Das Konzert

The gripping stories and legendary characters of the popular fantasy series “Game of Thrones” and “House of the Dragon” will come to life musically at this concert.

With over 150 performances in four countries and thousands of spectators, the successful concert series “Game of Thrones – The Concert Show” has already proven to be exceptionally popular. Now, in combination with the sequel series “House of the Dragon,” another unique show experience unfolds.

The soundtrack – A masterpiece:
The Emmy-winning soundtrack to “Game of Thrones” is musically outstanding and also deeply embedded in the narrative. Ramin Djawadi's masterpiece shines with tension-filled sequences that are perfectly matched to the characters and their journeys. With every powerful note of the iconic theme and the poignant motifs that drive the plot forward, the audience is drawn into the turbulent world of Westeros. Likewise, the soundtrack of “House of the Dragon,” which highlights the deep roots of the Targaryen dynasty, offers new and fascinating sounds and themes.

A composer with visionary talent:
Ramin Djawadi, the talented composer from Duisburg, has evolved and found a distinctive style after studying with Hans Zimmer. Both his soundtrack for “Game of Thrones” and for “House of the Dragon” have not only thrilled fans of the series but also made him famous worldwide. With every beat and every melody, Djawadi has created a soundscape that touches the heart and soul of the audience, taking them on an emotional journey.

The renowned ensemble of the Cinema Festival Symphonics, conducted by Stephen Ellery, will now present these melodies on stage in grand style. Accompanied by soloists and choir, it takes the audience on a majestic musical journey through the kingdoms of the Stark, Lannister, and Targaryen families.

The stories of George R. R. Martin:
While “Game of Thrones” has broken all records worldwide since 2011 with its gripping story around the main character Jon Snow, the spin-off “House of the Dragon” is also enjoying immense popularity. The series is set about 200 years before Jon Snow and the Stark family learn of the danger posed by the White Walkers. As the name suggests, “House of the Dragon” focuses on the Targaryen family with their dragons. In two seasons so far, the origin of the audience favorite Daenerys Targaryen and her family is told as grippingly as in the main series—of course, always accompanied by an epic soundtrack.

Entry about 1 hour before start

Royal Classical Ballet
presents
SCHWANENSEE
Ballet by Peter I. Tchaikovsky
Artistic Director: Rimma Wachsmann

“Schwanensee,” the most famous ballet by Peter I. Tchaikovsky, has enchanted generations of audiences since 1877 with its dreamy storyline and distinctive music. The poetic choreography and iconic swan figures lend the work a special magic and aesthetics that fascinate both dancers and audiences.

Swan Lake: The Timeless Fascination of a Ballet Classic
The ballet tells the story of Prince Siegfried, Princess Odette, and the sorcerer Rothbart in the finest traditional ballet language. A story of the triumph of love over dark forces, presented in a language of grace and emotion that the Royal Classical Ballet brings to life with sheer perfection. For audiences of all ages, the gate opens to a world of captivating beauty and reveals how behind the floating lightness on stage stand dedication and discipline.

The ballet “Swan Lake,” known for over 100 years, is characterized by its perfect technique and deep emotional expressiveness. With utmost precision, the dancers transform their bodies into instruments of art that tell a story of love, despair, and transformation. Rimma Wachsmann, known for her innovative interpretations and strong sense of aesthetics, gives this classical work a fresh perspective and leads the ensemble to new creative heights.

The Royal Classical Ballet has established an excellent reputation over the years, and this tour offers the ideal opportunity to experience once again the beauty and technical brilliance of classical ballet. Accompanied by the impressive music of Peter Tchaikovsky, the audience can expect a visual and acoustic masterpiece. Outstanding choreography, opulent costumes, and a captivating stage design will ensure that “Swan Lake” becomes an unforgettable experience that transports viewers into the magical world of ballet dreams.

Artistically led by Rimma Wachsmann with the highest standards, the Royal Classical Ballet invites you into the enchanting world of “Swan Lake” - an event that celebrates the tradition of classical ballet in its highest form while also setting new artistic accents.

Doors open 1 hour before the start.

Do you ever wonder where the last few years have gone? As if they were simply cut out of life. Nothing was the way it was anymore. For a whole six years, there was no annual review from Mathias Tretter. Because at some point he asked himself: Why remember everything that annoyed you the first time you heard it? It’s enough that it happened once. But with each new live ticker, the demand rises – where there is so much present, there also needs to be a little past. And Mathias Tretter delivers it again now. “Nachgetrettert!” is back! In two hours, everything you would rather forget. Yet retold in such a way that you think: “It was the time of our lives!”

“Anyone who cannot manage to pry themselves off the couch will never experience how entertaining, enlightening, and wonderfully funny such a small arts evening with political cabaret can be.

Tretter manages to speak and perform in such an outrageously relaxed and nonchalant style and demeanor, with a consistently high intellectual standard, that you hardly even drift off in thought.” (Süddeutsche Zeitung)

Photo: Enrico Meyer

Admission from 7:30 PM

Entry: 7:30 PM

Tickets available at all known advance booking locations and via Print@Home

Do you ever wonder where the last few years have gone? As if they were simply cut out of life. Nothing was the way it was anymore. For a whole six years, there was no annual review from Mathias Tretter. Because at some point he asked himself: Why remember everything that annoyed you the first time you heard it? It’s enough that it happened once. But with each new live ticker, the demand rises – where there is so much present, there also needs to be a little past. And Mathias Tretter delivers it again now. “Nachgetrettert!” is back! In two hours, everything you would rather forget. Yet retold in such a way that you think: “It was the time of our lives!”

“Anyone who cannot manage to pry themselves off the couch will never experience how entertaining, enlightening, and wonderfully funny such a small arts evening with political cabaret can be.

Tretter manages to speak and perform in such an outrageously relaxed and nonchalant style and demeanor, with a consistently high intellectual standard, that you hardly even drift off in thought.” (Süddeutsche Zeitung)

Photo: Enrico Meyer

Admission from 7:30 PM

Cabaret/comedy or classical in duet?
Hildegart Scholten and Charlotte Werner share a passion for opera and are definitely not afraid of anything. A whirlwind tour through the opera world or the abyss of comedic tragedy. The term comic opera has never been more apt and the adventure greater. The audience encounters surprises
Bartoli and company, touched and then blown away by Scholten and Werner. The powerful yet delicate voices of the two queens of humor will certainly not leave a dry eye.

Doors open: 10:00 AM

Tickets available at all known advance ticket sales locations and via Print@Home

Welcome to a journey through the fascinating world of Hotel Bossa Nova, the band that has enriched the music scene with its unique sound since its founding in 2005. The band from Wiesbaden merges contemporary Bossa Nova and jazz into an original style they call a European interpretation, "European Bossa Nova." This unique style has earned them a solid place in the music world and is appreciated by both critics and fans.

Hotel Bossa Nova, with the charismatic singer Liza da Costa, confidently balances the line between street music and artistic ambition, between Latin folklore and pulsating improvisation. The band 'explodes' musically in the background but also makes the quiet and subtle tones of Bossa Nova audible.

Photo: Reinhard Berg

Even on "Trés Maneiras," their now ninth studio album, the musical globetrotters once again artfully dissolve rigid genre boundaries. A combination like this would not long ago have been described somewhat helplessly as World Jazz; however, Hotel Bossa Nova no longer requires this label. The music of Hotel Bossa Nova is characterized by irresistible playfulness and musicality.

• Liza da Costa: Vocals
• Tilmann Höhn: Guitar
• Alexander Sonntag: Bass
• Jens Biehl: Drums

Doors open at 19:30

In a dance with paper, the juggler and object artist Benjamin Richter unfolds moments of fleeting poetry.

Admission: 19:00

In a dance with paper, the juggler and object artist Benjamin Richter unfolds moments of fleeting poetry.

Admission: 17:00

Doors open: 10:00 AM

Tickets available at all known advance ticket sales locations and via Print@Home

A Rhenish evening full of music, anecdotes, and heart.

Willi Wilden brings his Rhenish songs to where they belong – right in the heart of Cologne. In his concert, he tells stories “from life” with wit and emotion, sometimes for swaying, sometimes for laughing, sometimes for thinking, always with a wink and a lot of Rhenish charm. He is accompanied on the piano by Frank Buohler, who brings the songs to life with fine sensitivity and musical depth.

An evening for everyone who loves Cologne and the Rhineland – and life! The songs and anecdotes of this evening create an atmosphere where you immediately feel at home. With surprise guests. Perhaps one or the other musical companion will drop by...

The cozy ambiance of the Senftöpfchen Theater offers the perfect setting for a lively evening in a family atmosphere – ideal for music lovers, Cologne fans, and friends of Rhenish joie de vivre.

Photo/Source: Willi Wilden

Entry from 16:15

Unfortunately, the guest performance has been cancelled.

Note: The music show on ice takes place on an artificial ice surface called LIKE-ICE! This technology, developed by a German company, is the most environmentally friendly solution with the least impact on the environment.

Eiskönigin 1&2 on ice continues to enchant – with fresh brilliance and an experience that connects people of all ages.

With a large ensemble!
And there is much to experience: great pop songs, an exciting ensemble of musical soloists, ice dancers, and acrobats, as well as an impressive LED stage design! Even more extensive and dynamic, the music show creates a world full of extraordinary wonders.

Sisters Elsa and Anna and their companions embark on an adventurous musical journey with the stars of the German-speaking musical scene, the big skating ensemble, and international artists coming together from various parts of the world.

All songs live!
Goosebumps galore when Elsa sings the absolute hit of the evening "Let It Go!" while enchanting the stage and the huge LED screen with her magical powers into a sea of ice and deep blue crystals! Fun when snowman Olaf dreams of sun and beach in "In Summer" "with a drink in hand and nice and brown!"
Spectacular when Elsa and Anna join the trolls for a snowball fight in "Do You Want to Build a Snowman" or Kristoff sings with his beloved reindeer Sven "Reindeer are better than people!" In this ice show, many more hits follow, including "Where No One Has Been," "Show Yourself," and "Love Opens Doors."

When the first notes of the Oscar-winning hit "Let It Go!" fill the auditorium, an excited silence reigns amidst the darkness, which turns into captivated excitement.
LIKE-ICE!
Particular emphasis is placed on sustainability in the ice show. The ensemble skates on custom-made plastic ice.
Thus, "Eiskönigin 1&2 on Ice" culminates in an event of spectacular proportions that leaves visitors in awe with an unprecedented presentation of light, sound, and movement.

Doors open 1 hour before the start.