Naturtheater Heidenheim

Nestled in the picturesque town of Heidenheim an der Brenz, the Naturtheater Heidenheim stands as a testament to the enduring power of community and the arts. This open-air theater, located in the verdant surroundings near Schloss Hellenstein, has been a cultural cornerstone since its inception in 1924. With a rich history and a vibrant present, the Naturtheater Heidenheim offers a unique theatrical experience that appeals to audiences of all ages.

The Origins of Naturtheater Heidenheim

The story of the Naturtheater Heidenheim begins with Gustav Müller, a non-commissioned officer who, amidst the turmoil of World War I, vowed to dedicate his life to the unifying power of art. In 1919, Müller founded the Volkskunstvereinigung, which was officially registered in 1921. This association laid the groundwork for the establishment of the open-air stage at Salamanderbächle, which opened its doors to the public in 1924. The theater's inaugural year also saw Eugen Jaekle become its honorary chairman, marking the beginning of a long and storied tradition.

A Theater Through the Ages

Throughout its history, the Naturtheater Heidenheim has weathered numerous challenges, including the suspension of performances during World War II. The theater resumed its activities in 1946 with a production of Das tapfere Schneiderlein (The Brave Little Tailor). The tradition of staging a children's play each year began in 1976 with Der Räuber Hotzenplotz (The Robber Hotzenplotz), a practice that continues to this day.

In 1981, the theater achieved significant success with a production of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. However, the same year also saw a split within the theater community, leading to the creation of a separate stage at Brenzursprung in Königsbronn. Despite these challenges, the Naturtheater Heidenheim continued to flourish, presenting classics such as Goethe's Faust in 1985 and its first musical, Anatevka (Fiddler on the Roof), in 1988.

Modern Developments and Notable Productions

The Naturtheater Heidenheim has continually evolved to meet the needs of its audience and performers. In 1995, the old audience hall was replaced with a modern, freestanding structure that accommodates 1,068 seats. A particularly unique production took place in 1997 when the musical Linie 1 was performed at the Heidenheim main train station, utilizing the operational train station as a live backdrop.

In 2006, the theater association expanded its facilities with a new workshop building that included additional rehearsal space, a costume workshop, and larger costume rental rooms. The theater has also embraced contemporary and rarely performed works, such as Amadeus in 2000, Sister Act in 2001, and Katharina Knie in 2004. The completion of construction on the forecourt in 2009 further enhanced the theater's surroundings, making it a popular recreational area.

A Cultural Hub

The Naturtheater Heidenheim is more than just a venue; it is a vibrant cultural hub supported by over 500 members of all ages. The current board, comprising Stefan Benz, Lara Tschabrun, Dirk Steffens, Stephan Fritz, and Martina Remmlinger, ensures the theater's continued success. Financial support from the city of Heidenheim and the Friends of the Naturtheater association, founded in 2020, further bolsters the theater's operations.

Celebrating Milestones

The theater celebrated its centenary in 2019 with the theme Hundred Years – Hundred Events, featuring a grand production of Leonard Bernstein's West Side Story. The celebration included numerous special events and additional performances. In collaboration with the Theater of the City of Aalen, the Naturtheater presented ...und einig wollen wir handeln, a play that revisited the theater's first production, Wilhelm Tell, and explored its societal relevance in contemporary times.

As the Naturtheater Heidenheim approaches its centennial anniversary in 2024, it plans to commemorate this milestone with a series of special performances, including Annie and Der Räuber Hotzenplotz, along with a special rendition of Wilhelm Tell.

A Must-Visit Destination

For visitors to Heidenheim an der Brenz, the Naturtheater Heidenheim is a must-visit destination. Its unique blend of history, community spirit, and artistic excellence makes it a standout attraction in the region. Whether you're a theater enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an enjoyable family outing, the Naturtheater Heidenheim offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the magic of live performance in a stunning natural setting.