Historic Comoedienhaus building, first municipal theater in Germany, built 1780-1782, demolished 1908 — The Comoedienhaus, constructed between 1780 and 1782, was the first municipal theater in Germany, pictured here before its demolition in 1908. It is a significant historical building reflecting 18th-century theater architecture.

Floor plan of the Comoedienhaus theatre — Detailed architectural floor plan of the Comoedienhaus theatre showing layout and structure

Old Schauspielhaus Frankfurt poem on folding postcard 1902 — Folding postcard from 1902 featuring the poem 'Hampelmanns Abschied vom alten Schauspielhaus' related to the old Schauspielhaus theater in Frankfurt am Main.

Old Schauspielhaus farewell postcard from Frankfurt 1902 — Historic postcard from Frankfurt featuring a poem bidding farewell to the old Schauspielhaus theater in 1902

The Comedien Platz (Comedy Square) in Frankfurt am Main with historic buildings and street views — The Comedien Platz, also known as Comedy Square, located in Frankfurt am Main features historic architecture and vibrant urban scenery

Historic Frankfurt Comödienhaus theater building in 1902 — Black and white photograph of the Frankfurt Comödienhaus theater building taken in 1902, showcasing historic European architecture.

Fire at the Komödienhaus theatre in Frankfurt am Main in 1878 — Historical image depicting the fire disaster at the Komödienhaus theatre in Frankfurt am Main in the year 1878

Historical painting depicting the Frankfurter Fürstentag gathering in 1863 with elegantly dressed attendees — Painting illustrating the Frankfurter Fürstentag event held in 1863 showing a large assembly of formally dressed figures in a grand hall.

Participants of the Frankfurt Fürstentag visiting the Komödienhaus in Frankfurt am Main in 1863 — Historical image depicting the participants of the Frankfurt Fürstentag during their visit to the Komödienhaus in Frankfurt am Main in the year 1863.

Goethedenkmal monument in Frankfurt by Ludwig Michael Schwanthaler, circa 1900 — Historical black and white photograph of Goethedenkmal monument in Frankfurt created by Ludwig Michael Schwanthaler around 1900, showcasing detailed architectural sculpture.

Vintage postcard of Hampelmann's greeting at the new Schauspielhaus in Frankfurt am Main from 1902 — Vintage postcard titled 'Hampelmann's Begrüssung des neuen Schauspielhauses' featuring the new Schauspielhaus in Frankfurt am Main, sent from Frankfurt to Hagenau/Elsass on October 19, 1902, published by D. Grödel, Börnestr. 35, Frankfurt am Main.

Komödienhaus theater in Frankfurt am Main during a performance around 1870 — Historic image of Komödienhaus theater in Frankfurt am Main showing an audience and actors during a performance circa 1870

Comoedienhaus: Frankfurt and Hanau

The name Comoedienhaus refers to Frankfurt’s former civic theater and to the continuing theater tradition in Hanau, including the Comoedienhaus at Wilhelmsbad. Frankfurt’s original venue was demolished in 1911; visitors can explore its former site at Rathenauplatz, while performances continue at venues in Hanau. The theater’s history and legacy are documented by frankfurt-lese.de and uni-marburg.de.

History

Frankfurt’s Comoedienhaus

Johann Andreas Liebhardt established the Comoedienhaus between 1780 and 1782 at the intersection of Börsenstraße and Biebergasse. The site was then known as Theaterplatz and is now Rathenauplatz. As Frankfurt’s first permanent civic theater, it marked a shift from temporary performance venues to a dedicated space for drama and music, reflecting Enlightenment ideals and serving the city’s growing middle class.

The theater opened on September 3, 1782, with the Grossmann company. Among those in attendance was Catharina Elisabeth Goethe. Designed in a classical style, it had a restrained exterior crowned by the Frankfurter Adler, three entrance doors, and five staircases. The auditorium included two tiers of 30 boxes each, plus 12 boxes in the parterre, and could accommodate over 1,000 guests.

Before the theater opened, performances in Frankfurt took place in makeshift venues. The Comoedienhaus helped professionalize the city’s performing arts: Mozart’s Die Entführung aus dem Serail was performed there in 1783, and by 1792 the ensemble was known as the “Frankfurter Nationalbühne.” Further historical details are available from oper-frankfurt.de.

During the 19th century, the theater hosted premieres and performances by international composers, including Berlioz and Wagner, introducing Frankfurt audiences to modern works and fostering the local music and theater scene. The opening of larger venues, including the Alte Oper in 1880, eventually made the Comoedienhaus outdated. The theater remained active until it was demolished in 1911. A commercial building now marks its former site, and its legacy continues through Frankfurt’s performing arts institutions, including buehnen-frankfurt.de.

Hanau’s Comoedienhaus and Wilhelmsbad

Founded in the late 18th century, Hanau’s Comoedienhaus is described as one of Germany’s oldest civic theaters. Its neoclassical architecture, refined interior, and historic renovations reflect Enlightenment ideals of access to culture and education. It serves as both a performance space and a monument (Hikersbay).

The theater supports German-language theater and presents classical and contemporary works. Its activities include collaborations with local and regional institutions, educational workshops, and inclusive programming (Buehnen Frankfurt). The Comoedienhaus is also described as part of a cultural network connected with Frankfurt’s arts institutions (ExploreCity).

What to see

At Rathenauplatz, visitors can see the site of Frankfurt’s former Comoedienhaus, now marked by a commercial building. Informational plaques commemorate the theater, and guided city tours and walking routes often include the site.

In Hanau, the Comoedienhaus offers performances and community programming. The Wilhelmsbad venue combines theater with the historic park setting; its facilities and visitor information are described by Hikersbay.

Practical visiting information

The former Frankfurt site

The original Comoedienhaus no longer exists, so there are no set visiting hours and no tickets are required to visit its former site. Check local event calendars and tourist information centers for special exhibitions or guided tours focused on Frankfurt’s theater history.

Rathenauplatz is centrally located and accessible by Frankfurt public transportation. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with cafés, shops, and other amenities nearby.

Comoedienhaus in Hanau

The Hanau venue is in central Hanau, accessible from Hanau Hauptbahnhof by local buses, with ample nearby parking. It is typically open for performances on Tuesday to Sunday evenings, with matinees on selected weekends. Box office hours are 10:00 AM–6:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM–2:00 PM on Saturdays.

Standard tickets cost €15–€40, with discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Tickets can be booked online, at the box office, or through authorized vendors. Check the official program and schedule.

The venue provides step-free access, wheelchair seating, and accessible restrooms. Contact the box office about specific requirements.

Comoedienhaus Wilhelmsbad

The Wilhelmsbad theater is in Hanau’s historic Wilhelmsbad park. Performances are typically in the evening, from 7:00–10:00 PM; special tours and events may provide daytime access. Tickets can be bought online, at the box office, or through partners. Advance booking is recommended, especially for festivals and popular shows. Discounts may apply for students, seniors, and groups.

From Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof, take the S-Bahn (S8/S9) to Hanau, then continue by a short taxi or bus ride. Ample parking is available.

The historic building has some accessibility limitations, but designated accessible entrances and seating are provided. Contact the venue ahead about specific needs. On-site amenities include restrooms, a café, and a cloakroom; Wilhelmsbad park has additional places to relax.

Hanau has accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to apartments within easy reach. Dining options include cafés in Wilhelmsbad park and restaurants in Hanau’s center; reservations are advised during busy periods (Hikersbay).

Tips

Book tickets and accommodation early, especially during festivals, and check event calendars for special programming.
Public transportation, including the S-Bahn and local buses, is an efficient way to travel.
Smart-casual attire is recommended. Arrive 15–20 minutes early; photography and recording during performances are not permitted.
German is the main language, though staff often speak English. Basic German phrases are appreciated (MyChauffeur).
Hanau is described as safe. Respect Ruhezeit, or quiet hours, from 10 pm–6 am, and local tipping customs (TimeOut).
Spring and early autumn are described as pleasant times to visit for a park stroll. Summer brings more events and crowds, while winter is quieter (Shortform).
Evenings can be cool, so a light jacket may be useful. Plan for family activities or accessible facilities if needed.

Nearby places

In Frankfurt, cultural options include performances at the Alte Oper Frankfurt and Städtische Bühnen Frankfurt. The Frankfurt Historical Museum and local walking tours offer further insights into the city’s artistic development.

In Hanau, nearby attractions include Hanau Marktplatz, Philippsruhe Castle, and the Goldsmiths’ House. At Wilhelmsbad, visitors can combine a theater visit with the park, the Brothers Grimm National Monument, and Philippsruhe Castle. Frankfurt’s museums can also be combined with a Hanau visit using the Frankfurt Card for transport and discounts (Living Nomads).

The theater draws regional and international visitors, supports local businesses and heritage tourism, and holds events that sometimes coincide with major Frankfurt festivals (Hikersbay).

Frequently asked questions

Can I visit the original Comoedienhaus in Frankfurt?
The original building was demolished. Rathenauplatz marks its site, which is included in historical tours.

Where can I see performances today?
Performances are available at the Alte Oper and Städtische Bühnen in Frankfurt, and at Comoedienhaus venues in Hanau.

How do I get to Hanau’s Comoedienhaus?
Travel by train from Frankfurt to Hanau Hauptbahnhof, then take a bus or taxi to the theater. For Wilhelmsbad, the S-Bahn route from Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof is S8/S9, followed by a short taxi or bus ride.

Are the Comoedienhaus venues accessible for visitors with mobility needs?
Hanau’s Comoedienhaus provides step-free access, wheelchair seating, and accessible restrooms. Wilhelmsbad has some limitations but provides designated accessible entrances and seating. Contact the venue ahead about specific arrangements.

Can I combine a visit with other attractions?
Yes. Options include Hanau’s town center, its historic sites, Wilhelmsbad park, and Frankfurt’s museums.