Südwestfälische Freilichtbühne Freudenberg

One of Germany's most traditional open-air stages

In 2026, the Südwestfälische Freilichtbühne Freudenberg looks back on 72 seasons. Since 1954, theater has been performed under the open sky at the open-air stage, idyllically situated on the slopes around Freudenberg's old town – with a covered auditorium and an ambitious program that includes a children's play and an evening play each year.

2026 Season: Two Plays, Three Months

The season runs from June 13th to September 19th, 2026, with a summer break from July 22nd to August 14th. During this time, two productions will be shown:

Nimmerland – The Search for Peter Pan (Children's Play)

A modern stage adaptation of the classic story, recommended for ages five and up. 13 performances each at 3 PM. Duration approx. 2 hours including a 30-minute break. Admission €15–€20, children under 14 with discount. Ideal for families with kindergarten and primary school children.

Störtebeker – On behalf of the Hanseatic League (Evening Play)

A dramatic staging of the story of the notorious pirate Klaus Störtebeker, commissioned by the Hanseatic cities. 19 performances, mainly at 8 PM, some weekday matinees at 5 PM. Duration approx. 2 hours 45 minutes including a 20-minute break. Admission €17.50–€23.

The Open-Air Stage as a Venue

The stage is located in a wooded hollow above Freudenberg's old town. The auditorium is covered – so performances take place even in rainy weather (except in extreme storms). Five price categories are spread across the rows of seats, from the front rows to the back. Wheelchair accessible, with parking and bicycle racks.

Open-Air Foyer with Beer Garden

Before the performance and during the intermission, the Open-Air Foyer opens: a cozy outdoor area with a beer garden, wine stand, and kiosk. This turns a theater visit into a small summer evening event – especially for the 8 PM performances, the foyer becomes a secondary stage.

Freudenberg – the "Alte Flecken"

Freudenberg is a town of around 18,000 inhabitants in the Siegen-Wittgenstein district, on the border of Bergisches Land and Sauerland. Its landmark is the Alte Flecken: a perfectly preserved old town ensemble with white half-timbered houses and black slate roofs, uniformly rebuilt after the town fire of 1666. This postcard-perfect setting makes Freudenberg one of Westphalia's most beautiful small towns. A visit to the old town before the performance is highly recommended.

Volunteer Theater

The open-air stage is largely supported by amateur ensembles – actors, assistant directors, stagehands, and costume designers are mostly citizens from Freudenberg and the surrounding area. This club structure explains the long-standing stability and the close connection of the stage with the town.