Entertainment in Offenbach (Frankfurt am Main)

Oper Frankfurt

Opera is a burning issue in Frankfurt in more ways than one. Outsiders tend to associate it with the Alte Oper or the Opernbühne, but both were completely destroyed in the Second World War. A new building was opened in 1951 but burned to the ground in 1987, being reopened some four years later. The stucco sculpting on the ceiling of the foyer is of particular architectural interest. The works of the six operatic stalwarts are staged here more than anything else, though they also alternate with more recent composers. Instead of a permanent program, the Oper Frankfurt currently employs a 'staggione' system, staging performances in groups. The reputation of the opera house used to be a cut above the rest, but is currently on the wane as a result of internal disputes, despite some spectacular productions.

Schauspiel Frankfurt

Opened in 1963 and with a capacity of 700, the Schauspielhaus has, unfortunately, lost some of its initial glamour (when it became the first West German theatre to feature plays by Bertolt Brecht). While its productions of modern-day classics by the likes of Thomas Bernhard, Hans Schwab and Karl Kraus are still decent, it is now better known for its political intrigues than its intriguing productions.

Freies Theaterhaus

This independent theatre acts as a stage for dozens of different local ensembles. Opened in 1991 in the former Jewish Community Centre, a lot of interesting shows and performances are featured here year after year. Discussions and seminars are also organized at Freies Theaterhaus and so are concerts and musical events. The two stages host plays, musicals and concerts in the evening as well as daytime matinees for children. 

Kellertheater Frankfurt

Small and unobtrusive, the Keller theatre in Frankfurt city centre offers an interesting range of productions ranging from classical theatre by Goethe or Shakespeare, to newer pieces by Eissler or Brecht, as well as contemporary improvisation and interactive theatre. It also lends its stage to other independent theatre groups.

Internationales Theater

Whether it be Chinese puppet theatre, Transylvanian folk music, French musicals or or Russian tragedies, the Internationales Theater unites the world of theatre under just one roof. Performances are put on either by local ex-pat theatre groups or by ensembles from abroad; most pieces are performed in English, Italian, Russian or Spanish. And best of all, visitors can get to know even more about foreign cultures in the bar after the show.

Kinocenter Hauptwache

Comprising of nine different screens (including the 564-seat Europa-Palast, Frankfurt's second largest cinema), the Kinocenter Hauptwache is a Mecca for film fans. This is one of the few places in town which opens its doors really early, with shows continuing throughout the day until late at night. Cheap rates are available on weekdays and for all late-night shows.