Burgplatz Open Air – Der Freischütz
Edition 2026 Music Classical Opera

Burgplatz Open Air – Der Freischütz

Carl Maria von Weber's romantic opera under the open sky between the Cathedral and Dankwarderode Castle

Braunschweig — Kreisfreie Stadt Braunschweig (03101)
Dates 22 Aug — 09 Sep 2026
Venue Braunschweig (03101)
Prices
Status

About Burgplatz Open Air Freischütz

In the summer of 2026, the Staatstheater Braunschweig will present Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz", one of the most famous German operas, as a grand open-air spectacle on the Burgplatz. Against the unique backdrop of St. Blasii Cathedral and the medieval Dankwarderode Castle, a production specially designed for the square will unfold over several weeks, with around 18 performances. The premiere on August 22, 2026, marks the start of three weeks of open-air musical theatre, featuring the Staatsorchester, the opera choir, and a top-class ensemble of soloists. A rare opportunity to experience German Romanticism in a monumental setting.

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Opera under the open sky on the Burgplatz

With the Burgplatz Open Air, the Staatstheater Braunschweig continues its series of major summer productions in the heart of the old town. In 2026, "Der Freischütz" by Carl Maria von Weber, one of the key works of German Romanticism, will be on the programme – a work full of folk scenes, supernatural tension, and immortal melodies.

A backdrop steeped in history

The Burgplatz is one of the most impressive squares in northern Germany. Framed by St. Blasii Cathedral, Dankwarderode Castle, and the famous Brunswick Lion, it offers an atmosphere that no opera house can replicate. When the Wolf's Glen scene rings out after dark, medieval architecture, Weber's music, and the open-air experience merge into a unique effect.

"Der Freischütz" – a milestone in opera history

Premiered in 1821, the opera is considered the birth of the German romantic opera. The story of the young hunter Max, who has magic bullets cast through a pact with dark powers to win Agathe's hand, combines rural idyll, supernatural horror, and religious redemption. The famous Huntsmen's Chorus, Agathe's aria "Leise, leise, fromme Weise", and especially the eerie Wolf's Glen scene are firmly established in the repertoire of opera literature.

Elaborate production

Around 18 performances will take place over approximately three weeks. The production is specially developed for the Burgplatz, with large sets, lighting design of the historic facades, and open-air acoustics. The Staatsorchester Braunschweig, the opera choir, and soloists from the ensemble and guests are involved.

Burgplatz Open Air Freischütz — edition 2026

From August 22 to September 9, 2026, Braunschweig's Burgplatz will transform into an open-air opera stage: the Staatstheater Braunschweig will present Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz" in a specially designed production between St. Blasii Cathedral and Dankwarderode Castle. Around 18 performances are planned during this period, with the premiere on August 22. The Staatsorchester Braunschweig and the opera choir will perform, complemented by soloists from the company. The open-air event is one of the most important cultural highlights of the Braunschweig summer 2026.

Premiere and 2026 Season

The premiere of "Der Freischütz" on the Burgplatz will take place on Saturday, August 22, 2026. Following this, around 18 performances will be held over three weeks until the end of the season on September 9, 2026.

The production will be newly developed for the Burgplatz and will use the historic architecture as part of the stage design. The musical direction will be by the Staatsorchester Braunschweig, with the opera choir and soloists from the ensemble performing on stage.

Programme Burgplatz Open Air Freischütz 2026

Program Structure

The exact program for 2026 will be published by the organizer in the spring and summer. The structure follows the established key points of previous Burgplatz open-airs:

  • Saturday, August 22, 2026: Premiere of Carl Maria von Weber's "Der Freischütz" on the Burgplatz
  • August – September 2026: approximately 18 performances in total during the season
  • Participants: Staatsorchester Braunschweig, opera choir, soloists of the Staatstheater and guests
  • Production: Open-air production with specially developed stage design between St. Blasii Cathedral and Dankwarderode Castle
  • Highlights of the score: Opening overture, Huntsmen's Chorus, Agathe's aria "Leise, leise, fromme Weise", Wolf's Glen scene
  • Specific performance dates, casts, and tickets on the Staatstheater Braunschweig website

Highlights Burgplatz Open Air Freischütz 2026

Premiere on August 22, 2026, unique setting between St. Blasii Cathedral and Dankwarderode Castle, around 18 performances with the Staatsorchester Braunschweig and Weber's famous Wolf's Glen scene under the open sky.

Prices Burgplatz Open Air Freischütz 2026

Tickets via the Staatstheater Braunschweig (online shop, box office, telephone sales). Price categories as for special performances at the Schauspielhaus.

Practical information — Burgplatz Open Air Freischütz

Venue

Burgplatz, 38100 Braunschweig (between St. Blasii Cathedral and Dankwarderode Castle).

Getting there

By bus / tram to "Rathaus" or "Bohlweg". Approx. 15 minutes on foot from the main train station. Few parking garages in the immediate vicinity – travel by public transport recommended.

Tickets and performances

Performance dates, casts, and tickets via the Staatstheater Braunschweig (website, box office, telephone sales).

Notes on the Open Air

Performances take place in almost all weather conditions. In case of extreme weather, postponements may occur. Blankets, weatherproof clothing, and sturdy seat cushions recommended.

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Burgplatz Open Air Freischütz at a glance

Music Classical Opera Theater Outdoor Kreisfreie Stadt Braunschweig