So Many Reasons to See a Musical In Hamburg

Hamburg Musical Venues

Hamburg is the third largest location for musicals in the world, after New York and London. Annually, over 2 million spectators enjoy shows at various theatres throughout the city. The Ohnsorg Theater is quite famous within Germany for performing a roster of musicals that showcase the richness and versatility of the Low German language. Schmidts Tivoli Theater offers raucous musical theatre accompanied by drinks and light fare before, during, and following performances. The turn-of-the-century building and its arched blue roof are a favourite setting for post-theatre dinners.
The elegant Deutsches Schauspielhaus was established in 1900 in central Hamburg, right near the Main Station. With a capacity for 1192 spectators, this theatre entertains sophisticated locals and visitors alike with its mix of classic, international and experimental productions. Also located in central Hamburg, Thalia Theater presents more modern works. The famed festival 'Körber Studio Junge Regie' is held here annually, and serves as a launch pad for young theatrical talent from Germany, Austria and Switzerland.

Wonderfully Light, Graceful and Lively: Finally Access The Lion King in Hamburg

The longest-running musical in Hamburg has been Disney's 'The Lion King.' Considered one of the world's most successful musicals, 'The Lion King' has won more than 70 international awards and been on the stage in Germany since 2001. Access Lion King tickets online in advance through a reputable channel, but if this isn't possible, they can also be purchased at the theatre's box office, likewise in advance. Shown at the Theater im Hafen, right on the Elbe, which means you can access Lion King by boat, an experience in itself. Set to an evocative music, this magnificent musical explodes with dazzling colours and spectacular effects and captivating music to tell the story of the young lion Simba and his daring expeditions to fulfil his destiny.

See Rocky in Hamburg, On the Stage

'Rocky the Musical' is based on the original 1976 Oscar-winning film by the same name, which starred Sylvester Stallone. The musical iteration includes several hit songs like 'Eye of the Tiger,' from the movie 'Rocky III,' and 'Fight from the Heart,' from the original's sequel, 'Rocky Balboa.' One particular special thing about seeing Rocky in Hamburg is that the performance in fact involves the audience, but fear not, you won't be invited to don a pair of gloves to take part in this boxing-themed musical. Toward the end of the performance, a 15-minute scene allows lucky viewers in the front stalls of the theatre to move into the sets themselves, and sit in the rows of the musical's boxing ring. The Rocky Hamburg performances are at the Palladium Theater, and visitors are advised to buy tickets through an official channel online, in advance.

The Best Musicals to See in Hamburg

How can one choose, really? With more than 30 theatres throughout the city, the choices are quite limitless. That said, some popular highlights include the sequel to the legendary musical 'The Phantom of The Opera,' 'Love Never Dies - Phantom II,' which has delighted audiences since its début in the autumn of 2015. Disney's 'Aladdin' has also proven quite popular, and is notable for its elaborate costumes and impressive backdrops. 'The Miracle of Bern,' a German original, is a poignant father-son story that plays out during the World Cup of 1954.

What to Know About Musicals in Hamburg

While gifting tickets to Rocky in Hamburg is a great idea, as one might expect, most musicals staged in the city are performed in German. Be sure to check individual listings for something in English, or one which might be presented with subtitles, if you think you'll have a rocky Hamburg stage experience, otherwise (no pun intended!). The spectactular stagings mean performances are still enjoyable, however, and many theatres offer supper options, but this too should be explored on a case-by-case basis.

Author: Ricardo Carvalho

Guest Relation Manager of NH Collection Hamburg City

In Hamburg we say “Moin”! My name is Ricardo Carvalho and I'm a “Hamburg Jung” (Hamburg boy) with Portuguese roots. I was born here, and I live in and love Hamburg.
In order to share my enthusiasm for the city, I started training as a hotel specialist at the NH Hamburg Altona in 2007, and moved to the NH Collection Hamburg City in 2015.
With the philosophy of the NH Collection brand as well as the special service Guest Relations offers I have found my perfect job! I am always happy to show my guests the most beautiful city in the world and enjoy making their visit to Hamburg as memorable as possible.