Theater an der Parkaue

The Theater an der Parkaue in Lichtenberg is one of the largest state theaters for young audiences in Germany, operating three stages and two studios in a listed former secondary school. The program starts with children aged three and up, complemented by clubs, workshops, and its own children's advisory board.

Theater an der Parkaue in Lichtenberg: Children’s Theater in a Former Secondary School

The Theater an der Parkaue is located on a quiet side street behind Lichtenberg City Hall, in a listed building originally constructed as a secondary school and converted into a theater in 1948. The Rathaus Lichtenberg tram stop with lines 16 and M13 is about 200 meters away, making it the closest station, while the Frankfurter Allee S-Bahn and U-Bahn station is approximately 500 meters away. Parking spaces in the vicinity are scarce; those arriving by car should best use the Ringcenter parking garage.

Behind the facade are three stages and two studios, totaling around 420 seats. For years, the building has been renovated in several phases, resulting in, among other things, new stage machinery and a glass staircase with an elevator on the south facade. Six wheelchair spaces on the main stage, audio description, and relaxed performances are now standard.

Program for Ages Three and Up and Educational Program at Theater an der Parkaue

The venue opened on November 16, 1950, as the Theater der Freundschaft (Theater of Friendship) and was aimed at a young audience from the start. It has carried its current name since 1991 and is managed by Christina Schulz and Alexander Riemenschneider. This makes it one of the largest state theaters for young audiences in Germany, with approximately 90 employees.

The program starts with plays for children aged three and up and extends to productions for ages 15 and above; each production is additionally marked with a corresponding school grade. Children up to twelve years old pay 7 Euros, adults 15 Euros, and frequent visitors benefit from the Parkaue Card, which offers a year-long discount on the regular price. Under the title „Planet P”, the venue bundles its educational program with clubs, workshops, and its own children’s and youth advisory board, which participates in discussions on content-related issues. Additionally, there is the Gen P Festival and the Berlin Play Prize for young audiences. Schools and daycares receive further reduced tickets with the JugendKulturService discount voucher, and one free ticket is included per class.