Hamburg has established itself as Germany's musical capital and offers an impressive variety of productions. With several renowned theatres along the Elbe, the city attracts millions of visitors every year. Whether world-famous classics or innovative new productions, Hamburg's musical landscape is as dynamic as it is diverse.

What makes the musical theatres in Hamburg so special?

The success story began in 1986 with the German premiere of "CATS" and continued with productions such as "Das Phantom der Oper" and "Der König der Löwen". The latter celebrated its premiere in 2001 in the specially built theatre in the harbour and has been one of the most successful musicals in the world ever since.

One outstanding example is the Stage Theatre in the Harbour, which was built in 1994 on the site of the former Stülcken shipyard. Originally built for the production "Buddy", it has been home to the hit play "Der König der Löwen" since 2001. The journey is often made by shuttle ship from the landing stages, which makes a visit to the theatre a special experience.

Another highlight is the Stage Theatre on the Elbe, which opened in 2014. With its modern glass façade, it blends harmoniously into the harbour landscape and offers space for major productions such as "The Miracle of Bern" or "Mary Poppins". The combination of innovative architecture and high-calibre performances makes the visit an unforgettable experience.

Tip: In addition to the large theatres, there are also smaller theatres such as Schmidt's Tivoli on the Reeperbahn, which humorously stages local stories with plays such as "Heiße Ecke" and thus complements the city's diverse offerings.

• The rehearsal spaces of large musical theaters are often located in the basement or on separate stages behind the audience area.
• Daylight is intentionally absent in many theater halls - this allows each performance to be staged independently of the time of day.
• Some productions travel with their own orchestra pit, which must be adapted depending on the theater's technical setup.
• For a smooth running of an evening performance, usually over 80 employees are working behind the scenes.
• In some theaters, the stage parts are hydraulically movable and can be shifted to multiple levels during the show.
• Each musical uses its own scent code - targeted atmospheres are created through special fog and scent machines.
• The costume departments often work months in advance to prepare multiple identical outfits for backup performers for each character.
• Hamburg is the only city in Germany with its own ferry shuttle that is exclusively used for musical guests.
• Some theaters have an internal tunnel system that allows technicians and staff to move unnoticed beneath the stage.
• Certain productions require over 300 spotlights, which are individually programmed and checked before each performance.

Families appreciate productions suitable for children like "The Lion King" or "Aladdin," which delight with colorful costumes and catchy music. Couples enjoy the romantic atmosphere of shows like "The Phantom of the Opera" or "Mamma Mia!" The theaters also offer suitable packages for groups or corporate events, ensuring a shared experience.

With the variety of musicals performed, there is something for every taste – from classic performances to modern pop musicals. The barrier-free access and special offerings for people with disabilities also make the theaters accessible to all visitors.

Ticket prices vary depending on the production, seating category and day of the week.

Tip: Many theatres offer discounts for schoolchildren, students, senior citizens, groups or families. It is worth asking about special offers or last-minute tickets to make your theatre visit cheaper

Depending on the musical you want to see, you can choose from different performance times.

Generally, there are performances around early afternoon and several evening shows.

• Stage Theater im Hafen: Norderelbstr. 6, 20457 Hamburg
• Stage Theater Neue Flora: Stresemannstr. 15, 22769 Hamburg
• Stage Operettenhaus: Spielbudenplatz 1, 20359 Hamburg
• Stage Theater an der Elbe: Norderelbstr. 8, 20457 Hamburg
• Delphi Showpalast: Eimsbütteler Chaussee 5, 20259 Hamburg
• First Stage Theater: Thedestr. 13–17, 22767 Hamburg
• Schmidts Tivoli: Spielbudenplatz 27/28, 20359 Hamburg
• Mehr! Theater am Großmarkt: Banksstr. 28, 20097 Hamburg
• Stage Theater Kehrwieder: Kehrwieder 6, 20457 Hamburg
• The English Theatre of Hamburg: Lerchenfeld 14, 22081 Hamburg

Hamburg's musical theaters are far more than just venues - they are integral parts of the cultural life in the city. With productions that bring international quality to the stage and theaters that set architectural and logistical standards, they have established themselves as crowd pullers over the decades. Whether you are interested in big emotions, spectacular stage imagery, or handcrafted pieces from the Reeperbahn - the offerings are so diverse that you can always discover something new. And even if you are not a big musical fan, a visit is worthwhile just for the atmosphere, the view of the harbor, and the feeling of experiencing a special evening.