Schlossfestspiele Die Dreigroschenoper

Brecht and Weill's Global Hit in Schwerin

"Die Dreigroschenoper" is the most famous work of 20th-century German musical theatre. Bertolt Brecht wrote the text – with contributions from Elisabeth Hauptmann – based on John Gay's "The Beggar's Opera," and Kurt Weill composed the unforgettable music. The premiere in 1928 at Berlin's Theater am Schiffbauerdamm made the play an overnight international success. Songs like the "Ballad of Mack the Knife," "Pirate Jenny," and the "Cannon Song" remain staples of the repertoire to this day.

A Production for Schlossfestspiele 2026

In the summer of 2026, the Mecklenburgisches Staatstheater Schwerin will present the production in the theatre tent at the Küchengarten, one of the central venues of the Schlossfestspiele. The production is directed by Patrick Wengenroth, with musical direction by Martin Schelhaas. Musicians from the Mecklenburgische Staatskapelle perform – a cross-genre effort that combines acting, musical theatre, and orchestra.

The Plot

London in the Victorian era: the charming gangster Mackie Messer marries Polly Peachum, the daughter of Jonathan Peachum, the "King of Beggars." He seeks revenge and wants to bring Mackie to the gallows. Corruption, love, betrayal, and biting social criticism merge into an evening of theatre filled with jazz, blues, and dark humour.

Venue and Atmosphere

The theatre tent at the Küchengarten is located near Schwerin Castle, which has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Residenzensemble since 2024. Every summer, the Schlossfestspiele transform the state capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern into a grand open-air stage. "Die Dreigroschenoper" is one of the main productions of the 2026 festival season, holding a firm place in Schwerin's cross-regional cultural calendar.

Dates and Tickets

The premiere takes place on June 19, 2026, with a total of 15 performances scheduled until July 12, 2026. Performance start times are at 5 PM or 7 PM depending on the date. Tickets are available online from €16.80, at the Schwerin Tourist Information office, and by phone.