Burghofspiele Falkenstein

50 Years of Open-Air Theatre in the Castle

The Burghofspiele Falkenstein are celebrating a significant anniversary in 2026: 50 years of open-air theatre in the inner courtyard of Falkenstein Castle. Since its premiere in 1976, the festival has developed into one of the oldest and most renowned open-air stages in the Oberpfalz region. The venue is the intimate courtyard of Falkenstein Castle, enclosed by castle walls, in the Vorderer Bayerischer Wald – a unique theatrical setting that provides an unmistakable backdrop for classic and entertaining productions.

Play 2026: The Canterville Ghost

In this anniversary year, the Burghofspiele Falkenstein are staging "The Canterville Ghost" – a stage adaptation of the world-famous Oscar Wilde novel by Jürgen von Bülow. Melody Bayer, who has significantly shaped the ensemble in previous years, is directing. The play tells the story of the ghost Sir Simon de Canterville, who fails to frighten the new American owners of his castle – a humorous, satirical exploration of English and American values. Performance duration around 90 minutes.

Falkenstein Castle as a Stage

Falkenstein Castle, first mentioned in the 11th century, towers over the market town of Falkenstein in the Cham district. The castle courtyard offers a sheltered, semi-covered performance space with a historic atmosphere. Admission is 1.5 hours before the start of the performance. Snacks and drinks are available before and after the performance. Performances will take place in case of rain – cancellation only in case of extreme weather shortly before the start.

Key Facts

• 50th anniversary since the premiere in 1976
• Inner courtyard of Falkenstein Castle as the venue
• Play 2026: "The Canterville Ghost" (freely adapted from Oscar Wilde)
• Adaptation: Jürgen von Bülow, Direction: Melody Bayer
• Performance dates: June 27 to July 25, 2026
• Performance duration: approx. 90 minutes
• Advance ticket sales start March 1, 2026, via okticket.de
• Free shuttle from the castle entrance 1 hour before the performance starts

The state of Bavaria and the Oberpfalz region, particularly the Vorderer Bayerischer Wald, maintain a very vibrant tradition of open-air theatre. Alongside the Pottenstein Festival and the Volksschauspiele Burg Trausnitz, the Burghofspiele Falkenstein are among Bavaria's characteristic castle stages.