Located in the heart of Giessen, Germany, Theater Giessen (locally known as Stadttheater Gießen) stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and artistic expression. This magnificent structure, nestled at Berliner Platz, is not just a theater but a historical monument that has played a pivotal role in the cultural evolution of the city. With its neoclassical architecture infused with elements of Art Nouveau, Theater Giessen is a visual and cultural delight, offering a diverse repertoire that includes opera, musicals, operettas, classical and contemporary plays, and modern dance performances.
The journey of Theater Giessen began in 1890 when a group of Giessen citizens, led by university professor Carl Fromme, formed a theater association with the aim of enhancing the city's theatrical culture. Initially, the association focused on hosting guest performances from external ensembles. However, by 1897, under Fromme’s leadership, the vision expanded to establish Giessen as a permanent theater location. This vision culminated in the formation of a theater union with the cities of Marburg and Bad Nauheim by the 1902/1903 season.
The existing theater venue in Giessen proved inadequate, prompting the association to pursue the construction of a dedicated theater building. Despite initial financial challenges, the city of Giessen offered a plot of land free of charge in 1903. This gesture, combined with a civic initiative that raised two-thirds of the construction costs, led to the realization of Theater Giessen. The building, completed in 1907 at a cost of 630,000 marks, stands as a testament to the communal spirit of the citizens, as inscribed above its portal: EIN DENKMAL BÜRGERLICHEN GEMEINSINNS (A Monument to Civic Spirit).
The architectural design of Theater Giessen is the brainchild of the renowned Viennese architectural firm Fellner & Helmer, in collaboration with Giessen architect Hans Meyer, who supervised the construction. The building's design, influenced by Art Nouveau, bears resemblance to other theaters designed by Fellner & Helmer, such as those in Klagenfurt and Jablonec nad Nisou. This architectural marvel features a blend of neoclassical and Art Nouveau elements, making it a unique and captivating structure.
The main façade of Theater Giessen is adorned with intricate details. The sand-colored stucco façade rises above a base made of Ettringer tuff stone. The three large, dark brown entrance portals, sheltered by a glass canopy, lead to a vestibule with six tall, narrow windows framed in white and featuring Art Nouveau stained glass. The façade is further embellished with seven allegorical representations, including Malice, Scorn, Lust, Satyr, Contempt, Wit, and Anger. The statues of Thalia, the muse of comedy, and Melpomene, the muse of tragedy, flank the inscription by Friedrich Schiller: Denn aus der Kräfte schön vereintem Streben erhebt sich wirkend erst das wahre Leben (For from the beautiful striving of forces united together, true life arises).
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Theater Giessen officially opened its doors on July 27, 1907, with a grand performance that included Das Vorspiel auf dem Theater from Goethe's Faust, Heinrich von Kleist's Der zerbrochne Krug, and Friedrich Schiller's Wallensteins Lager. The first director, Hermann Steingoetter, who had been serving since 1903, led the theater through its early years, during which spoken drama dominated the stage. In 1932/1933, the theater expanded to include its own orchestra, paving the way for musical theater.
During World War II, the theater suffered significant damage from incendiary bombs on December 6, 1944. Financial constraints delayed comprehensive repairs, but a theater lottery in 1951 facilitated the restoration of the auditorium, foyer, and box office hall. The theater reopened on November 18, 1951, with a performance of Richard Wagner's Tannhäuser. Subsequent renovations in 1978/1979 and 1998 further enhanced the theater's facilities, including the addition of an acoustic ceiling, new seating, and restored Jugendstil elements.
Today, Theater Giessen stands as one of the few pre-war buildings in Giessen's city center. It operates as a five-branch house, offering a rich and varied program that caters to diverse artistic tastes. The main stage, known as the Großes Haus, seats 652 patrons, while the smaller stage, taT, accommodates 99 guests, providing an intimate setting for experimental and contemporary performances.
Under the leadership of Artistic Director Simone Sterr since the 2022/2023 season, Theater Giessen continues to thrive as a cultural hub, attracting audiences from across the region. Whether you are a fan of classical opera, modern dance, or contemporary theater, a visit to Theater Giessen promises an unforgettable experience, blending historical charm with cutting-edge performances.
In conclusion, Theater Giessen is not just a venue for performances; it is a living monument to the cultural and communal spirit of Giessen. Its storied past, architectural beauty, and vibrant present make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the cultural landscape of Hesse, Germany.
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