Variety Theaters and Shows
Endless glamour: Variety shows in Berlin yesterday and today
Berlin is not only the vibrant capital of politics and culture, but has also been the undisputed metropolis of variety theater for over 100 years. Even in the dazzling 1920s, variety theater in Berlin magically attracted artists, musicians, dancers, and performers from all over the world. This exciting period saw the emergence of legendary show venues that not only provided entertainment. It also set standards for style, glamour, and innovation.
Foremost among these is the traditional Wintergarten Varieté, whose history is closely interwoven with Berlin's cultural identity. Originally founded in the late 19th century, the Wintergarten became one of the most important stages in Europe during the Weimar Republic. International stars performed here, experimenting, laughing, and astonishing audiences. And variety theater history was made! After being destroyed in World War II, the theater was finally reopened in the 1990s and has been shining in new splendor ever since. Today, it delights audiences with modern shows, international ensembles, and an elegant ambience that brings the golden age of variety to life.
Diversity of stages: From classic variety to modern shows
In addition to the Wintergarten, a lively scene has developed over the last few decades that makes variety theater in Berlin as diverse as it is unique. Whether in the famous Friedrichstadt-Palast, which impresses with its gigantic productions, or in smaller, charming venues such as the Schlemmer Varieté, which focus on intimacy and creativity. The spectrum ranges from classical artistry and glamorous revue to innovative dance theater.
One special place that embodies this diversity is the Tipi am Kanzleramt. Located in the immediate vicinity of Berlin's government district, this extraordinary theater tent offers a unique, intimate atmosphere. Here, music, cabaret, comedy, and artistry merge. It is precisely this contrast between the grand pomp of the variety theaters and the playful, personal productions of the Tipi that makes Berlin's variety scene so fascinating.
Hand-picked shows for every taste
Our editorial team embarked on a journey of discovery and visited the most colorful, glamorous, and spectacular variety theaters in the capital. From this wealth of options, we have compiled a hand-picked top 10 list of the best variety performances in Berlin. Each venue has its own distinctive character! some exude the nostalgic glamour of bygone times, while others focus on modern productions that impress with the latest technology, creative effects, and artistic diversity.
In addition, new, experimental formats are constantly emerging that combine classic variety elements with contemporary performance art. This means that variety shows in Berlin are not standing still, but are constantly evolving. And that is exactly what makes them so exciting for visitors from all over the world.
Conclusion: always worth a visit
Whether you're interested in elegant revues, spectacular artistry, or humorous shows, variety shows in Berlin offer something for every taste. With its rich history, traditional venues, and modern stages, Berlin remains a place where the past and present of variety shows meet in a fascinating way.
At the Wintergarten Varieté, you experience a jam-packed program of acrobatics, music, and theatrical art. The traditional venue has been captivating audiences for over 130 years with artistic masterpieces and surprising shows.
In the government district, the Tipi am Kanzleramt presents a stage full of variety, cabaret, and music in Berlin's largest permanent tent. Here, sophisticated entertainment meets an intimate atmosphere reminiscent of the Golden Twenties.
For over 11 years, the Berliner Schlemmer Varieté has brought lively variety to Moabit. Within the historic walls of the Arminiusmarkthalle, regional cuisine and fast-paced artistry combine with a strong Berlin charm (Berliner Schnauze) to create a 3-course dinner show.
The Scheinbar Varieté in Berlin-Schöneberg has been enchanting audiences since 1984 with its small stage and great variety. Here, comedy, acrobatics, and cabaret meet an intimate living room atmosphere in one of Germany's oldest open stage varietés.
In Berlin-Charlottenburg, the Famous Show unfolds as a bold mix of variety, music, and fashion. This immersive production brings the audience directly into the heart of a glamorous bar stage, where performance meets intimacy.
Located in the heart of Berlin's Hackesche Höfe, the Chamäleon Theater has been playing its own tune for years. This contemporary variety show skillfully combines acrobatics, dance, and performance art – a home for intimate and creative circus evenings.
Wilde Matilde in the Nikolaiviertel enchants with a colorful variety show in the style of the roaring twenties. Here, artists swing from the ceiling while colorful cocktails are served at the unique carousel bar. The combination of Berlin flair and an interactive show makes this place a highlight for variety lovers in the heart of Berlin.
The Bar jeder Vernunft, hidden in elegant Wilmersdorf, surprises with its historic Art Nouveau mirror tent. Here, the audience experiences chanson, cabaret, and music in an intimate atmosphere by candlelight and at small tables with a view of the stage.
In the heart of city, directly beneath the television tower at Alexanderplatz, the Cirque-du-Burlesque-Show-bei-Lieschen-Müller brings glamour and Berlin charm to the stage. Here, cocktails, 1920s flair, and showmanship merge into an energetic evening.
Knutschfleck turns the heart of Alexanderplatz into a Berlin Variety Show hotspot. Twice a week beneath the TV Tower, the stage bursts with showgirls, acrobatics, live music, DJ parties and a touch of Moulin Rouge-style glamour.
