The internationally renowned music theater Prague presents for the New Year 2024 the current program: “Die große Strauß-Lehár-Offenbach Gala” on , ; start is . The audience can look forward to a mix of the most beautiful and well-known compositions of the three undisputed masters of Viennese operetta: Johann Strauß Jr., Franz Lehár, and Jacques Offenbach. The lively musical arc, ranging from lyrical melodies to fast-paced fiery rhythms, will be accompanied by the spirited soloist ballet with an energetic, varied dance fireworks display.
Popular and well-known operetta hits from timeless works such as “Die Fledermaus,” “Die lustige Witwe,” “Pariser Leben,” “Der Zigeunerbaron,” “Das Land des Lächelns,” “Orfeus in der Unterwelt,” as well as lively polkas and melting waltzes lead into a blissful world filled with love and sorrow, humor and surprises, longing and joy of life. The evening with soloists, orchestra, and ballet indulges with cheerful, brisk songs, duets, and ensembles, buoyant waltz melodies, polkas, Csárdás, and Cancan.


The music theater Prague specializes in popular musical and operetta productions. With vocal precision and acting talent, the highly gifted musicians and soloists enchant their audience. The spirited soloist ballet ignites a true dance fireworks display, featuring varied and demanding choreographies as well as diverse costume changes. Energetic dance steps, melting voices, and an orchestra of the highest quality promise an impressive evening full of elegance, passion, and waltz ecstasy.


_______ Johann Strauß Jr. and the “golden age” of Viennese operetta
When a composer can claim to be the most popular of all, it is Johann Strauß Jr. For some time, the whole world succumbed to the irresistible charm of the Strauß waltz; to this day, his popularity remains unbroken – Strauß melodies resound around the world.
The music of Johann Strauß represents something like the spirit of Vienna. It expresses sensual charm and the light, yet stylish way of life that is characteristic of the Viennese.
Johann Strauß is regarded as the most significant representative of the Strauß musical dynasty and as the finisher of the “golden” Viennese operetta.


_______ Franz Lehár and the “silver age” of Viennese operetta
This brilliant era of operetta was followed by lean years, which recognized a decline of the genre and feared its complete decay. However, after the turn of the century, new strong talents emerged again whose achievements dispelled the concerns and gave new impulses to the operetta.
The most creative and compelling personality among the composers of the so-called “silver age” of Viennese operetta was Franz Lehár. The richness and originality of melodic invention, sensual temperamental fullness and dramatic elan, rhythmic piquancy, lyrical melting, and manifold charms of sound and folkloric color are the distinguishing features of his best, impressively crafted stage works, which have rightly found worldwide acclaim.


_______ Jacques Offenbach: “Father of the Operetta”
The man known as the “Father of the Operetta,” Jacques Offenbach, possessed an extraordinary talent for the burlesque, comical, and parodic like no musician before or after him. His musical wit spared nothing; however, delicate, gracefully lyrical sounds were also available to him.
The success of his works inspired both Franz von Suppé and Johann Strauß Jr. to enrich the new genre of operetta with their own compositions.

Admission: 7:15 PM

Fireman Sam LIVE! - Adventure on Dino Island

Children's hero Fireman Sam returns with a brand-new show: Adventure on Dino Island. Recently, ancient dinosaur bones were found on the island of Pontypandy. The mischievous Norman is thrilled: it means that real dinosaurs lived on the island! Together with his best friend Mandy, he sets out to find more evidence and risks his own life in the process. Fireman Sam and his friends Elvis, Jenny, and Commander Steel must take action to ensure that the young adventurers are safe.

Fireman Sam Live: Adventure on Dino Island is an exhilarating show full of singing, dancing, and exciting rescue missions!

Doors open at 3:30 pm.

2024-09-29_The Eternal Snob

2024-11-30_Mindfully Murdering

2025-02-15_Things I Know for Sure

2025-03-22_Rent a Friend

2025-04-26_Waiting for the Bus

pichorbello - Choral singing that lingers long after

The 30 enthusiastic singers from 3 generations and their choir director Uli Dachtler impress with their vocal presence and harmonious overall sound.
The distinctive style mix of heartfelt ballads, lively pop songs, stirring rock anthems, and classical arias sneaks equally into the hearts and minds of the audience, freeing forgotten emotions to linger long.
Whether loud or soft, lively or calm - familiar and unfamiliar arrangements are passionately presented in multiple voices or solo passages.
The stage lighting tailored to the songs gently embraces its audience, and the choir director's humorous contributions quickly dispel everyday worries. This creates the very special atmosphere of a pichorbello concert. This accompanies the audience throughout the evening event and is welcome to be taken home to go through life encouraged and strengthened.
We look forward to seeing you!

Doors open: 7:00 PM

Eight Classical Concerts

Tickets may still be available at local box offices or at the door.

Melinda Thompson's KIDS FOR CLASSIC THEATER, KIEL presents:

Prague Festival Ballet
Conductor: Pavla Červčiková
Swan Lake
Classical ballet for children

from 4 years onwards

An evil sorcerer has transformed the beautiful young princess Odette into a swan when she ventured too close to the shore of his lake. Near the lake lies an old castle where a beautiful princess lives with her son Siegfried. Prince Siegfried feels magically drawn to the beautiful swans in the lake. He does not realize that they are actually young girls who have all been transformed into swans by the evil sorcerer and who assume human form for an hour at midnight. Prince Siegfried falls in love with Princess Odette and learns from her the secret of her transformation, and that she can only be freed from the spell by the love and faithfulness of a man...
Thus begins the beautiful fairy tale of Swan Lake, the most beloved ballet classic by Pyotr Tchaikovsky. Swan Lake is the most popular ballet of all time. For many, it has become synonymous with ballet. Furthermore, the music for Swan Lake is considered one of the most beautiful ballet scores of all time.
Now, a very special and beautiful version of this ballet classic for children aged 4 to 94 is coming to the stage, created for children but by no means childish! This loving performance will be danced for the first time by the Prague Festival Ballet with sophistication and great elegance. Colorful costumes and imaginative stage design promise to enchant every child's heart.
The story will be brought to the audience by the charismatic actress Melinda Thompson as a narrator, who captivates young and old with catchy little poems full of wit, charm, and love.
The Prague Festival Ballet with soloists from leading Prague opera houses will transport you to the wonderland of playful and romantic, magical and dreamy, which should be part of every child's dream! The choreographer is the talented young dancer Pavla Červčiková – her completely new choreography remains true to the traditional style of the famous first choreographer of Swan Lake, Marius Petipa, who is widely regarded as the father of classical ballet.

Doors open: 4:00 PM

Encounter of two worlds: In the musical highlight "Tarzan," the audience experiences a breathtaking jungle adventure together with the title hero. Spectacular original compositions, plenty of excitement, and a touch of romance provide an entertaining live experience for the whole family!

Unforgettable musical show
The renowned theater Liberi, known for its modern family musicals, stages the hundred-year-old story by Edgar Rice Burrough in a contemporary version. Imaginative costumes, a playful, colorful set, and atmospheric lighting effects create the jungle world where Tarzan resides. Musically, the audience is taken on a diverse journey through different genres that impress with impressive arrangements and great emotions. A highly trained ensemble ensures that characters, music, and scenery on stage merge into a unique whole.

Exciting adventures in the jungle
A young family suffers shipwreck and - barely stranded on the African coast - is attacked by wild animals. Left behind is a little boy who is taken in and raised by the she-ape Kala, orphaned like her own child. But even though Tarzan finds a home among the apes and a good friend in the ape girl Tea, the leader Kerchak makes him feel that he does not truly belong with them even after years. The feeling of still having to find his place in the world gets stronger when Tarzan encounters humans for the first time. Professor Porter, his curious daughter Jane, and the shady Olivia Clayton are on an expedition to explore the jungle. Over time, Tarzan and Jane grow closer, but then events take a dramatic turn, and Tarzan and his ape family face great danger…

Age: from 4 years old
Duration: 2 hours including a 20-minute intermission

Welcome to the realm of knowledge in the Baroque era: Stepping onto creaking floorboards into the quiet grandeur of our historical library hall, one is immediately enveloped by the collective knowledge of the Early Modern period. Like stage sets in a Baroque theater, the original bookshelves jut into the space, housing around 50,000 books from all fields of knowledge. Behind unassuming book spines lie remarkable treasures, such as the first German Bible printed in America.

At the end of the 17th century, the orphanage's library was established as one of the first public libraries in Germany. Primarily through donations, book exchanges, and their own publications, the library grew so rapidly that within a few years, it was comparable to significant German university libraries. In 1728, it received its own building, which is considered the oldest surviving secular library structure in Germany. Not only in recent times has the library been visited by guests and researchers from around the world: Albrecht von Haller, Johann Joachim Winckelmann, and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe all admired its bibliophilic treasures. We present a selection of them for you in rotating cabinet exhibitions in the former reading room of the library.

10 am - 5 pm

The Art and Natural History Chamber is considered the oldest German museum room. It was established by August Hermann Francke for educational purposes and is now once again set up according to the original museum concept of the 18th century in its historical location in the attic of the Historical Orphanage.

Eighteen richly decorated collection cabinets house approximately 3000 natural specimens, curiosities, and artifacts. They provide a unique impression of a Baroque cabinet of curiosities. Unlike modern museums, the chamber follows an encyclopedic collecting approach. A distinction is made between natural specimens and artifacts. The natural specimens are divided into rocks, plants, and animals, while the artifacts are categorized into visual arts, calligraphy, coins, everyday culture, and clothing. The goal was to create a mirror image of the world: a microcosm that made the macrocosm as the wonderful creation of God tangible.

In a series of events, art projects take place around the Art and Natural History Chamber. In the so-called "Contemporary Reflections on the Art and Natural History Chamber," foundations invite artists to engage in an artistic dialogue with the chamber.

Detailed information

Tue-Sun 10am-5pm

Palace-like, the orphanage rises on Franckeplatz. Then as now, it is the centerpiece of the Francke Foundations. Erected in 1698 as the first building of the school city, it represents a new facet of European Baroque, combining confident representation without extravagant ornamentation and setting the tone for orphanage architecture.

Today, the orphanage is our museum and cultural center. Right from the start, two permanent exhibitions guide you through the history of the foundation and the global impact of Pietism. On the first floor, the former prayer and singing hall surprises with its bright architecture. Today, it enjoys an excellent reputation as a concert hall due to its fantastic acoustics. In the adjacent conference rooms, a photo exhibition showcases the impressive renovation work since the foundations were reestablished in 1991. The second floor is reserved for our changing special exhibitions, which provide insight into important themes of the foundation's history from both a historical and contemporary perspective. Passing through the art and natural history collections in the attic, you reach the balcony via a narrow wooden staircase. Here, a wide view opens up over the impressive ensemble with school buildings from three centuries. There is also a splendid panorama of the Old Town of Halle from here. In the basement, children can explore their own paths in the Krokoseum.

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

What power does the word have? For Halleschen Pietismus, the word was of central importance. On the ground floor of the Historical Orphanage, we show you how August Hermann Francke's reform movement could spread around the world.

Francke developed central reformative goals of Martin Luther's with Halleschen Pietismus. His approach was as clear as it was revolutionary: Every person should find God through their own Bible reading. However, for this to happen, everyone - boys and girls alike - had to learn to read, everyone should be able to afford their own Bible and it should be printed in their own native language. Therefore, Francke established schools for all social classes, printed millions of German-language People's Bibles, and created an international network through which the Bible was translated into many other languages. His educational initiative allowed a broad population to engage with the word. In the 18th-century evangelical parsonages, the authors of the Romantic and Enlightenment periods were highly regarded. A culture of self-reflection spread in Pietism, which was reflected in diaries and personal testimonies, giving us remarkable insights into the spiritual life of people of that time. Symbolically, the power of the word is also evident in the meticulously restored pulpit from the Church of St. Ulrich in Halle, where Francke preached from 1715 and which you can admire in the exhibition.

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

4 talers and 16 groschen are considered the founding capital of the Francke Foundations. How an unparalleled school city grew from this unexpected donation to a simple pastor in Glaucha can be discovered on the ground floor of the Historical Orphanage. A multimedia installation and numerous extraordinary objects will transport you into the fascinating founding and impact history of Francke's work. Because what began with a school for the poor and an orphanage, developed in a few decades into a true reform project that was based on education: Over 2,000 students learned in various schools, specially constructed economic buildings, a hospital, and a pharmacy guaranteed the care of over 3,000 people on the premises, unique cultural-historical collections in the library and chamber of wonders were established, and Francke's ideas were spread within and outside Europe. August Hermann Francke wanted nothing less than a "world change through personal change." Discover everything he set in motion through this.

10:00 am - 5:00 pm

The demo station by Rirkrit Tiravanija is a stage-like sculpture that invites people to „demonstrate“ something. Tiravanija understands the term in a double sense – as political protest or as a demonstration of something that someone particularly excels at or enjoys. Throughout the duration of the exhibition, the demo station offers daily space for public performances.

During the event, photo and video recordings may be made, in which you may appear. By attending, you consent to these recordings being used for the communication of the event or exhibition.

World of Lights presents – Winterleuchten in Westfalenpark Dortmund

This year, Westfalenpark Dortmund invites you to the popular Winterleuchten, taking place from December 7, 2024, to January 5, 2025. This enchanting event transforms the park into a radiant winter landscape, where light art and magical atmosphere merge into a unique experience.

The Winterleuchten is a highlight of the Dortmund winter season and delights visitors of all ages. Family-friendly and diverse in its offerings, the event provides an unforgettable way to enjoy the cold season in a special manner.

Light art and new attractions: Look forward to a wide selection of light objects and installations that transform Westfalenpark into a glowing winter wonderland. This year, the largest and most impressive objects await you:

• “The Ship” – 7 meters high, 6 meters long, and equipped with 2,500 controllable LEDs – A colorful sea of light that creates the impression of the ship majestically gliding in the breeze.

• “For Elise” – An installation with 2-meter high pyramids and 1.20 x 1.20 meter large glowing cubes, shining in sync with Beethoven's "For Elise" and transforming the park into a symphonic light show.

• “The Duck” – This charming light installation, 2 meters tall, floats on the pond at Kaiserhain and brings cheerful moments.

In addition to the spectacular light artworks, there are projections on various surfaces in the park that tell stories and create an immersive environment that captivates young and old alike.

Culinary offerings:
Visitors can also look forward to a diverse gastronomic offering that provides additional culinary highlights during the event.

It’s that time again: The Landauer Weihnachtscircus invites you for the 22nd time to its Grand Chapiteau for a festive circus winter festival for the whole family. Fascination and magic lie within the program, which has been exclusively put together for the days of the most beautiful time of the year.

There will be crazy fire breathers and impressive artists in the ring and in the air, fascinating illusionists and tightrope walkers with a comedic twist, as well as funny clowns and teachable animals. By popular demand, the Torres troupe from Colombia is back again. Having been spectacular during their performance two years ago, the guys are stepping it up this time. The audience can be excited to see what these "Hellriders" will do in the "Globe of Speed," the tight steel cage, with their powerful motorcycles. Our charming host Ashley Barelli will also be back after her debut last year, along with the young ladies of the Weihnachtscircus show ballet.

And what do we call our sparkling circus cocktail this year? Of course, “Fascination”! Fascinating circus art that is second to none. Starting from December 19, 2024, in Landau at the exhibition grounds. There, where the classic Christmas circus is at home.

Gabriel Venzago Chief Conductor

No tickets available here

Winter Wonderland – the impressive light exhibition at the Faber-Castell Castle Park in Stein near Nuremberg is entering its second round.

ShowBro GmbH once again brings the Faber-Castell Castle Park to life with its stunning light sculptures, creating a unique experience for young and old alike.

This dazzling light exhibition will transport visitors starting from November 28, 2024, every day into a fairy-tale world that transforms the beauty of winter, the magic of darkness, and the charm of the castle into a magical experience of light.

The Winter Wonderland features over 120 life-sized animals and hundreds of other light objects. These have been crafted by Austrian stage builders by hand from over 600,000 LED lights and around 18 km of steel. On approximately 40,000 square meters, visitors will be enchanted in the midst of glowing mythical creatures and colorful installations in the wintry, nocturnal nature.

The Winter Wonderland has been specially developed by ShowBro GmbH and offers a unique experience of its kind, which is being held for the second consecutive year at the Faber-Castell Castle Park.

Marco Feldmann, technical managing director of ShowBro GmbH: “This will be a magical light exhibition and we are very pleased to create such an attraction at this fantastic location, at the Faber-Castell Castle in Stein near Nuremberg, and offer a beautiful excursion destination during the Advent season.”

The Winter Wonderland opens its gates on November 28 and will be accessible every day from 5:00 PM.

The duration of stay is unlimited.

Period: November 28, 2024, to January 6, 2025
Daily Time Slots: from 5:00 PM hourly, last entry at 9:00 PM. Park open until 10:00 PM.

Winter Wonderland – the impressive light exhibition at the Faber-Castell Castle Park in Stein near Nuremberg is entering its second round.

ShowBro GmbH once again brings the Faber-Castell Castle Park to life with its stunning light sculptures, creating a unique experience for young and old alike.

This dazzling light exhibition will transport visitors starting from November 28, 2024, every day into a fairy-tale world that transforms the beauty of winter, the magic of darkness, and the charm of the castle into a magical experience of light.

The Winter Wonderland features over 120 life-sized animals and hundreds of other light objects. These have been crafted by Austrian stage builders by hand from over 600,000 LED lights and around 18 km of steel. On approximately 40,000 square meters, visitors will be enchanted in the midst of glowing mythical creatures and colorful installations in the wintry, nocturnal nature.

The Winter Wonderland has been specially developed by ShowBro GmbH and offers a unique experience of its kind, which is being held for the second consecutive year at the Faber-Castell Castle Park.

Marco Feldmann, technical managing director of ShowBro GmbH: “This will be a magical light exhibition and we are very pleased to create such an attraction at this fantastic location, at the Faber-Castell Castle in Stein near Nuremberg, and offer a beautiful excursion destination during the Advent season.”

The Winter Wonderland opens its gates on November 28 and will be accessible every day from 5:00 PM.

The duration of stay is unlimited.

Period: November 28, 2024, to January 6, 2025
Daily Time Slots: from 5:00 PM hourly, last entry at 9:00 PM. Park open until 10:00 PM.

Winter Wonderland – the impressive light exhibition at the Faber-Castell Castle Park in Stein near Nuremberg is entering its second round.

ShowBro GmbH once again brings the Faber-Castell Castle Park to life with its stunning light sculptures, creating a unique experience for young and old alike.

This dazzling light exhibition will transport visitors starting from November 28, 2024, every day into a fairy-tale world that transforms the beauty of winter, the magic of darkness, and the charm of the castle into a magical experience of light.

The Winter Wonderland features over 120 life-sized animals and hundreds of other light objects. These have been crafted by Austrian stage builders by hand from over 600,000 LED lights and around 18 km of steel. On approximately 40,000 square meters, visitors will be enchanted in the midst of glowing mythical creatures and colorful installations in the wintry, nocturnal nature.

The Winter Wonderland has been specially developed by ShowBro GmbH and offers a unique experience of its kind, which is being held for the second consecutive year at the Faber-Castell Castle Park.

Marco Feldmann, technical managing director of ShowBro GmbH: “This will be a magical light exhibition and we are very pleased to create such an attraction at this fantastic location, at the Faber-Castell Castle in Stein near Nuremberg, and offer a beautiful excursion destination during the Advent season.”

The Winter Wonderland opens its gates on November 28 and will be accessible every day from 5:00 PM.

The duration of stay is unlimited.

Period: November 28, 2024, to January 6, 2025
Daily Time Slots: from 5:00 PM hourly, last entry at 9:00 PM. Park open until 10:00 PM.