Volksschauspiele Ötigheim — The Blues Brothers 2026

Germany's Largest Open-Air Stage

The Volksschauspiele Ötigheim has operated Germany's largest open-air stage since 1906: an open-air theater with over 4,000 seats, a gigantic stage, and an impressive hillside setting against the Black Forest. Every summer from June to August, the Theatersommer (theater summer) program features premieres, revivals, concerts, and guest performances. The Ötigheim tradition is part of the Swabian-Baden cultural canon and attracts tens of thousands of visitors from all over Southern Germany annually.

"The Blues Brothers — The Show with a Mission"

In 2026, the Volksschauspiele will revive their successful 2024 production: "The Blues Brothers — The Show with a Mission", a stage adaptation of John Landis's cult film (1980). Directed by Manfred Ohnoutka, with stage design by Karel Spanhak and musical arrangements by Tim Allhoff. The story: Two petty criminal, adult orphans — Jake and Elwood Blues — want to save their Catholic orphanage, which is slated for closure. They reunite their old band, plan a benefit concert, and embark on a turbulent journey full of car chases, police, cowboys, and old flames — all "on a mission from God."

Music by Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, James Brown

The musical heart of the show lies in the soul, blues, and R&B classics, performed live by a large band with keyboards, guitar, bass, drums, trombone, saxophone, and trumpet. Songs by James Brown, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Elvis Presley, and other greats of American soul tradition. Ohnoutka's staging combines action, humor, and captivating show performances — transforming the film into an authentic stage experience.

"Blues & Sing" — Sing-Along Evenings

A special feature in 2026: two special "Blues & Sing" performances on July 25 and August 1, where the audience is invited to sing along. Accompanied by the cover band Rabbitears, the performance becomes a participatory, energetic experience — a highlight of the season.

Ötigheim — Theater Village in the Rastatt District

Ötigheim (Rastatt district, postal code 08216, approx. 5,000 inhabitants) is located between Karlsruhe and Baden-Baden on the B 36 federal highway, at the transition between the Rhine Valley and the northern Black Forest. The small community is known regionally primarily for its Volksschauspiele — a rare constellation where a village has operated one of Central Europe's most important open-air stages since 1906. Accessible by train via Rastatt (S-Bahn S 4) or by car via the A 5 / B 36.

Theatersommer 2026 — Full Program

The 2026 Theatersommer begins on June 6 and includes two new productions, two revivals, two gala concerts, and five guest performances. In addition to "The Blues Brothers," the musical classics "My Fair Lady", the children's play "Immer dieser Michel!" (That Rascal Michel!), and the comedy "Die acht Frauen" (Eight Women — a crime comedy) will be performed. Tickets available at www.volksschauspiele.de or by phone at (07222) 968790.