Schlosshofspiele Roth

Theatre in Castle Ratibor

The Schlosshofspiele Roth are an institution of Middle Franconian theatre life. Since 1957, open-air theatre has been performed in the inner courtyard of Castle Ratibor – a 16th-century Renaissance castle complex with connections to the Margraves of Brandenburg-Ansbach. The association Schlosshof-Spiele Roth e.V. is the organiser, and the productions form the highlight of the cultural summer in the Middle Franconian district of Roth.

Play 2026: A Midsummer Night's Dream

For the 2026 season, director Tobias Kilian has restaged William Shakespeare's magical comedy "A Midsummer Night's Dream". The adaptation blends human emotions with fairytale elements, showcasing love in all its irrational and wonderful facets. Athens and the enchanted forest, royal couples and elves, lovers and craftsmen meet in the historic setting of the castle courtyard.

A Tradition for Almost 70 Years

With its almost 70-year history, the Schlosshofspiele are among the oldest continuously performed open-air stages in Bavaria. Each year, the ensemble – a mix of experienced amateur actors, young talents, and guest professionals – creates a new production. The repertoire ranges from classics (Shakespeare, Lessing, Schiller) to comedies and fairytales, often with musical accompaniment.

Castle Courtyard as a Backdrop

• 16th-century Renaissance inner courtyard
• Open-air grandstand with covered seating for bad weather
• Premiere and 12 performances per season
• Performance start time 8:00 PM
• Organising association Schlosshof-Spiele Roth e.V.

Roth, the district town of the district of the same name in the state of Bavaria, is located between Nuremberg and the Franconian Lake District. Castle Ratibor – now the city museum – together with the castle complex and the townscape, forms an extraordinary theatre ensemble. For decades, the Schlosshofspiele have been a fixed point in the programme for every Middle Franconian summer cultural trip.