„The Hauspostille addresses the reader's feelings and intellect. The reading is recommended in times of raw natural forces and in hours of wealth, the awareness of flesh and presumption. It is to be sung under the assault of harsh dissonance. Its motto is: 'In thanks for the sunlight that shines upon them, the things cast shadows.' Brecht wrote the poems of this collection between 1916 and 1925. The title Hauspostille is a parodistic allusion. 'Eidinger does not just read Brecht's poems – he immerses himself in them.'

Lars Eidinger, currently the most gifted actor of his generation, is known from film, television, and stage, proving his artistic talent in other projects as well. Whether as Hamlet, Richard III, or in Salzburg as Jedermann; he captivates the audience. He loves and lives his work; you can feel that directly in this reading. The despair of the present, the love that makes it bearable, Eidinger conveys precisely and with feeling on stage. His performance as 'Stiller Gast' in the Tatort trilogy is particularly memorable; in the touching feature film 25 km/h or as Bertolt Brecht in 'Mackie Messer - Brecht's Threepenny Film.'

The actor is congenially musically accompanied by Hans-Jörn Brandenburg on the piano. Both take a deep breath of wild Brecht and bring his poetry as a shimmering total work of art onto the stage.

Doors open: 7:00 PM

Dive into the “Anatomy of Happiness”

Human happiness is closely related to the body. How closely is revealed by the KÖRPERWELTEN permanent exhibition in Heidelberg. Here, the anatomist Gunther von Hagens developed the method of plastination at the University of Heidelberg, a groundbreaking technique for preserving bodies.

Today, KÖRPERWELTEN is one of the most popular exhibitions in the world. Curious people around the globe explore the mysteries of human existence. But it is not just the anatomy of the body that is central – rather, it is about raising awareness and understanding the significance of the body in relation to one's own happiness. The exhibited plastinates create a new awareness for a responsible approach to one's own body and a healthy lifestyle. What moves us? What drives us? And how does happiness actually work? All these questions and many more are answered in the “Anatomy of Happiness” and just as many are raised anew. The human body never ceases to amaze and inspire us.

Last admission: 5:00 PM

Danny and Helen's romantic dinner is interrupted when Helen's brother Liam bursts into the room covered in blood. Not his blood, he says. A boy has been stabbed on the street, and Liam just helped him. Danny wants to call the police. Helen stops him, as Liam has a criminal record, it's better not to draw attention to him. Danny is persuaded to protect his brother-in-law and doesn't realize the fatal tangle of half-truths, lies, and love he is getting involved in.

In a chamber play, "Orphans" raises societal questions about guilt, responsibility, and civic courage, revealing how quickly values like morality and helpfulness are discarded once personal interests and entanglements take precedence.

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

A talking piece of wood? From it, a puppet is carved, a puppet with a long nose that grows when it lies, a puppet that is supposed to go to school but instead sees much more exciting things, given that it was just finished being carved. And in the process, it gets up to quite a lot of nonsense. For over 100 years, the stories of the mischievous little puppet Pinocchio have been captivating people all over the world. The humor and innocence of Pinocchio on the one hand, and the question of what it means to be a child on the other, are what make this puppet with a long nose so timeless.
Based on Carlo Collodi by Kristina Kühne
with Nina Holtvoeth, Mareike Haas, Philipp Feld, John Paul Roßmy
Direction: Christian Zell

Georg Kreisler's songs are timeless and still highly relevant.

Known for his dark humor and wit, his dreamy, indeed tender side remained rather hidden. Numerous songs no less genius than the famous "Poisoning Pigeons" threaten to be forgotten.

For Victor, it is a matter of the heart to carry Kreisler's philosophy forward for future generations.

Doors open: 19:00, the event is not accessible.

The Kriminaldinner 'Sherlock Holmes und der vergiftete Rievkooche (Reibekuchen)' takes place for you in the 1857 Wirtshaus in Krefeld. In a stylish ambiance, you will dive into the world of suspense and criminal cases - accompanied by a delicious multi-course menu.

The famous master detective Sherlock Holmes and his diligent assistant, Dr. Watson, have ended up in the Rhineland lowlands. Admittedly not entirely voluntarily. But Sherlock Holmes could not refuse the invitation of an old acquaintance, Baroness von Zuckerberg, to a gala dinner once again. So we are dining here just at the time in the side room of the restaurant, where you will enjoy a delicious menu this evening.

In their escape from his dinner neighbor, the endlessly "chattering" Cologne baroness, the two investigators narrowly miss the alleged murder of the hostess's husband, Baron von Zuckerberg.

Well, his health condition was not at its best. But to suddenly topple forward with "de Nas" into his beloved "Rievkooche" is also not the fine English way to die, even in the Rhineland. However, for Sherlock Holmes, the previously deadly boring evening is saved.

The multi-course menu will be served by the gastro team of the 1857 Wirtshaus, which will guarantee thrills for nerves and palate. Admission is at 6:30 PM - the event starts at 7:00 PM.

Admission: 6:30 PM / Multi-course menu and theater performance are included in the price / Table and seating will be assigned on-site.

CONCERT
KIERAN GOSS & ANNIE KINSELLA
SONGS AND STORIES FROM IRELAND

Great songs, musicality, harmonies, and stories... all with typical Irish charm and warmth ... transport the audience to another world. The music comes straight from the heart and goes straight to the heart. A concert that will make you laugh and cry. A concert that will move you with its honest beauty.

Irish singer/songwriter Kieran Goss and singer Annie Kinsella released their first duo album 'Oh, The Starlings' before the pandemic and present this along with new unreleased songs and old favorites like Reasons To Leave and Out Of My Head. A concert not to be missed.

"Both are talented singers independently, but when they sing together, the audience is truly enchanted... The harmonies, the chemistry... simply exceptional." (Time Out Magazine)

Admittance: 7:00 PM

We all access the internet daily through web browsers. The question of how browsers determine what we experience online has fascinated artists early on. Based on a research project by the KIT Institute for Art and Architectural History on browser art, the exhibition »Choose Your Filter!« provides insights into 30 years of browser development. Here, you can discover and try out browser visions through interactive installations. 

Wed to Fri from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Sat and Sun 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Operetta by Ralph Benatzky

Operetta in 3 acts
Libretto and text editing: Eric Charell, Robert Gilbert and Kurt Feltz
Duration: 130 minutes including intermission

PRODUCTION TEAM
Puppet construction: Bernhard Leismüller
Puppet heads: Kathrin Klimke / Bernhard Leismüller / Sebastian Demmel
Costume tailoring: Bernhard Leismüller / Amand Pérez / Fabienne Haspel
Stage design: Bettina Hummitzsch
Set construction: Ralf Böhringer
Production assistance: Patrick Vonmoos
Direction, dramaturgy: Bernhard Leismüller

PRODUCTION
"For a marionette stage, 'The White Horse Inn' presents a great challenge. Not least the numerous props used by the puppets pose the highest demands on the puppeteers. Letters, glasses and suitcases, even musical instruments and animals must be mastered."

STAGE HISTORY
The premiere of "The White Horse Inn" took place on November 8, 1930 at the Berlin Schauspielhaus. The setting is the White Horse Inn in St. Wolfgang in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. In London, the play had 651 performances in a Erik Charell production, and in New York, The White Horse Inn was performed 223 times on Broadway at the Center Theatre in 1936, once again in a newly composed musical production by Charell.
The work was banned in Nazi Germany due to its Jewish co-authors. The scene at the baths, which was perceived as scandalous, also angered the Nazis.
On June 19, 2009, "The White Horse Inn" was newly staged.
The rediscovered Rössel is brighter and jazzier than the arrangement played to this day from the 1950s. Even the historical recordings of individual musical numbers could only provide an approximate idea of it.

The international ABBA Tribute successful production with musicians from Sweden, England, Malaysia, and Germany.

Platform shoes and flashy costumes were ABBA's trademark. Even after the 40th anniversary of the "Waterloo" success, this music still captivates the audience. 4 SWEDES - ABBA-Tribute brings the world hits of the four Swedes back to the stage in an energetic show.

A concert with 4 SWEDES - ABBA-Tribute is a retrospective of the musical milestones of the Swedish quartet's global career. 4 SWEDES places special emphasis on authenticity. The choreography of each song and the costumes are faithfully recreated from the original. The resemblance of the women, both vocally and visually, is convincing, and 4 SWEDES particularly values not wearing wigs. Thus, it's more than just a concert; it's a consistently choreographed revue where the history of ABBA is shared, including background information. This sets them apart significantly from other ABBA shows.

4 SWEDES present their program with a large live lineup. To date, over half a million enthusiastic viewers have experienced the captivating show of 4 SWEDES.

4 SWEDES - ABBA-Tribute is a truly concert experience!

4 SWEDES are:
Vox Agnetha – Lidia Lingstedt
Vox Anni Frid – Isabell Classen
Vox, Git. Björn – Steve H. Stevens
Vox, Keys Benny – Torsten C. Mahnke
Bass – Cecil Drackett/ Lee Romeo
Drums – Stefan Karol Adler

Doors open at: 8:00 PM

In the old town with its medieval squares and winding alleys, charming half-timbered houses stand alongside representative buildings from the time of the Reichskammergericht, shaping the cityscape. Johann Wolfgang Goethe stayed in Wetzlar in the summer of 1772. His experiences inspired the poet to his first major literary success, the epistolary novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther". Also fascinating is the unfinished gothic cathedral, which reflects a piece of the city's history through its combination of Romanesque and Gothic style elements.

Duration: 1.5 hours

In the old town with its medieval squares and winding alleys, charming half-timbered houses stand alongside representative buildings from the time of the Reichskammergericht, shaping the cityscape. Johann Wolfgang Goethe stayed in Wetzlar in the summer of 1772. His experiences inspired the poet to his first major literary success, the epistolary novel "The Sorrows of Young Werther". Also fascinating is the unfinished gothic cathedral, which reflects a piece of the city's history through its combination of Romanesque and Gothic style elements.

Duration: 1.5 hours

Welcome to 'Friburgum in Summa - Culture, History, and Sights' - your exclusive invitation to a compact, historical journey through the enchanting city of Freiburg. This tour provides the perfect overview of the historic old town and city history for visitors, tourists, newcomers, and enthusiasts!

Our tour will take you to the most fascinating sights, offer deep insights into the culture and history of the city, and allow you to experience the vibrant atmosphere up close.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Freiburg at the historic Town Hall Square, where you will admire the splendor of the Old Town Hall and feel the lively history of this central place. Together, we will visit the Colombischlössle, an architectural gem and the location of the Archaeological Museum.

We will stroll through the nightlife district Bermuda Triangle, where the vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights will captivate your senses. Enjoy the unique blend of tradition and modern lifestyle in this bustling neighborhood.

The Martinstor awaits us as an impressive city gate before we reach the majestic Freiburg Cathedral. Admire the gothic splendor of this architectural masterpiece and learn why it is the city's landmark.

On the way to the picturesque Schlossberg, without ascent, you will experience the city's green oasis and learn interesting facts about its role in Freiburg's history. We will return through the charming Konviktstraße, leaving you with amusing anecdotes and deep insights into the Freiburg way of life.

Book 'Friburgum in Summa' today and let our enthusiasm for Freiburg's rich history and vibrant culture inspire you. Experience the city in all its diversity - compact, informative, and unforgettable!

Admission: 10 minutes prior

Welcome to 'Friburgum in Summa - Culture, History, and Sights' - your exclusive invitation to a compact, historical journey through the enchanting city of Freiburg. This tour provides the perfect overview of the historic old town and city history for visitors, tourists, newcomers, and enthusiasts!

Our tour will take you to the most fascinating sights, offer deep insights into the culture and history of the city, and allow you to experience the vibrant atmosphere up close.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Freiburg at the historic Town Hall Square, where you will admire the splendor of the Old Town Hall and feel the lively history of this central place. Together, we will visit the Colombischlössle, an architectural gem and the location of the Archaeological Museum.

We will stroll through the nightlife district Bermuda Triangle, where the vibrant atmosphere and culinary delights will captivate your senses. Enjoy the unique blend of tradition and modern lifestyle in this bustling neighborhood.

The Martinstor awaits us as an impressive city gate before we reach the majestic Freiburg Cathedral. Admire the gothic splendor of this architectural masterpiece and learn why it is the city's landmark.

On the way to the picturesque Schlossberg, without ascent, you will experience the city's green oasis and learn interesting facts about its role in Freiburg's history. We will return through the charming Konviktstraße, leaving you with amusing anecdotes and deep insights into the Freiburg way of life.

Book 'Friburgum in Summa' today and let our enthusiasm for Freiburg's rich history and vibrant culture inspire you. Experience the city in all its diversity - compact, informative, and unforgettable!

Admission: 10 minutes prior