Fritz-Reuter-Festspiele Stavenhagen

A City and its Poet

Stavenhagen, in the Mecklenburg Lake District, officially bears the epithet Reuterstadt – named after Fritz Reuter, the most important Low German poet of the 19th century, who was born here in 1810. His literary legacy continues to shape the city. The Fritz-Reuter-Festspiele are Stavenhagen's annual commitment to this heritage and the Low German language.

Theatre on the Market Square

During the festival, Stavenhagen's historic market becomes an open-air stage. The centrepiece is a Low German theatre production that brings Reuter's works and Mecklenburg's history to life. Performing outdoors, under the open sky in the heart of the city, creates a special atmosphere and makes the Low German language accessible to a broad audience.

More Than Just Theatre

The festival is a multi-day town celebration: alongside the theatre, the programme includes musical performances, a literary symposium, and a city run. It combines sophisticated literary preservation with a folk festival atmosphere, appealing to both Reuter connoisseurs and families. It is organised by the Fritz-Reuter-Literaturmuseum, housed in Reuter's birthplace.

Under High Patronage

The Fritz-Reuter-Festspiele are held under the patronage of the Minister-President of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and are supported by the state, the Mecklenburg Lake District, and the NDR. For decades, they have been an integral part of the cultural life in the federal state and an example of how a small town keeps its cultural heritage alive.