The Cottbus State Theatre

The Cottbus State Theatre (1) is the master work of Berlin architect Bernhard Sehring (1855 - 1941). Sehring gave the Cottbus theatre its unique character through the skilful combination of architecture, arts and crafts, painting and sculpture. Due to its complexity and multi-faceted expression, the architecture of this building is still considered exceptional today.

When it was built the people of Cottbus saw the theatre as a new cultural dimension that would make the city into the focal point of intellectual life in the Lower Lausitz. Having taken only 16 months to build, the theatre opened on 1 October 1908 with Lessing's comedy Minna von Barnhelm. Many renowned artists have worked at the house on Schillerplatz square ever since. The theatre has had its own orchestra and opera ensemble since 1912 and in 1992 it was elevated from a municipal theatre to state theatre, the only one in the federal state of Brandenburg. Its high-quality opera, drama and concert performances have established its reputation throughout Germany.

Today, Europe's most beautiful art nouveau theatre offers a dazzling array of productions. Widely varying, impressive and interesting productions are presented on its three stages. Since its comprehensive renovation, which was completed in September 2007, the state theatre has been shining again in full glory, and provides greater convenience and security than ever before for its visitors.