Berliner Theatertreffen

Showcase of German-language Theatre

Since its inception in 1964, the Berliner Theatertreffen has been the festival where the German-language theatre scene measures itself annually. An independent jury of experienced theatre critics travels throughout Germany, Austria, and Switzerland over the course of a season, reviewing around 400 productions. From these, they select ten "remarkable" productions that perform in Berlin in May.

Haus der Berliner Festspiele

The venue is the Haus der Berliner Festspiele at Schaperstraße 24 (Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf district). The modernist building from the 1960s houses several stages, including the Great Hall, the Side Stage, and the Foyer, which host the festival's events in parallel. The ten selected productions are usually shown two to three times – tickets regularly sell out within hours.

All Forms of Theatre

For years, the jury's selection has consciously encompassed "all forms of theatre: from dance and puppetry to music theatre and theatrical installations." The Theatertreffen thus serves as an indicator of how German-language stage language is evolving: towards post-dramatic forms, performance, documentary theatre, and increasingly international collaborations.

More Than Just the Ten Productions

Alongside the main programme, there is the Camp Theatertreffen (a workshop for young theatre makers), readings from the Stückemarkt featuring new theatre texts, guest performances, discussions, and award ceremonies such as the 3sat Prize. Concerts, late-night shows, and talks in the foyer transform the Haus der Berliner Festspiele into a meeting point for the entire industry during these two weeks.