Monsterkabinett

In the cellar of Haus Schwarzenberg on Rosenthaler Straße, mechanical monsters come to life. The Monster Cabinet by the artist group Dead Chickens is a machine theater where automaton figures made from scrap and found objects dance, sing, and recite poems.

Monster Cabinet: Machine Theater in Haus Schwarzenberg

The path to the Monster Cabinet leads through the street art courtyard of Haus Schwarzenberg and then down a narrow staircase into the cellar vaults. Downstairs, an immersive room installation awaits, built by the Berlin artist group Dead Chickens. The cabinet has existed since 2010.

The figures are made of metal, scrap, and found objects and move kinetically, pneumatically, or digitally controlled. They bear names like „Little Three Eye” or „Orangina”, dance, sing, and recite poems. Performers guide through the show and tell the stories of the creatures. Many of the figures come from the artist Hannes Heiner.

Show, Tickets, and Tips for Your Visit

A show lasts approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Tickets cost 12 Euros, children up to 16 years pay 10 Euros. Individual visitors do not need a reservation, groups of ten or more people should register in advance. Children aged six and over are allowed to attend when accompanied by an adult.

The show is dark and often loud, photography is not allowed, and dogs must stay outside. Because the cabinet is located in Haus Schwarzenberg, a visit can be well combined with a film at Kino Central, the Neurotitan Gallery, or a drink at the Eschschloraque Rümschrümp bar.