The Mannheim National Theatre is one of the most historically significant theatres in Germany — and one of the most respected currently active ones. Its repertoire spans opera, ballet, drama, and children's theatre, performed across four stages of different sizes. The building is a post-war structure (the original was destroyed in 1943) but the institution is one of the oldest permanent theatres in the German-speaking world, founded in 1779.
The theatre's place in German cultural history is unusual: it was here that Friedrich Schiller's plays were first performed, and the Mannheim premieres of The Robbers and subsequent works launched his career. A statue of Schiller stands outside. Today the opera and ballet companies are particularly strong, with an international ensemble.
Tickets are reasonably priced by German theatre standards and often available at short notice for visitors. The box office is in the main theatre building; check the programme online before your visit.