Friedrichsbau Stuttgart: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 04/07/2025
Introduction: Experience Stuttgart’s Iconic Friedrichsbau Varieté
Situated in the vibrant heart of Stuttgart, Germany, the Friedrichsbau Varieté is a beacon of the city’s rich cultural tapestry, seamlessly weaving together historical grandeur and contemporary performance art. Established in the late 19th century as a Neo-Baroque marvel, the original Friedrichsbau housed a café, beer hall, and theater, quickly becoming a cornerstone of Stuttgart’s social and artistic circles. Over the decades, it has hosted legendary performers, survived wartime devastation, and undergone a modern revival, today presenting a dynamic program of cabaret, comedy, burlesque, magic, and music in a wheelchair-accessible venue at Pragsattel (opernloderer.blogspot.com, en.wikipedia.org, friedrichsbau-variete.de, stuttgart-tourist.de).
Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or a traveler seeking an unforgettable night out, Friedrichsbau Varieté offers an immersive experience that embodies both Stuttgart’s artistic heritage and its contemporary vibrancy.
Table of Contents
- Origins and Construction of the Friedrichsbau
- The Friedrichsbau Theater: Early Years and Cultural Impact
- War Damage, Reconstruction, and Demolition
- Revival and the Modern Friedrichsbau Varieté
- Relocation and Present-Day Status
- Visiting the Friedrichsbau Varieté: Practical Information
- Signature Productions and Events
- Visitor Experience: Dining, Tickets, Accessibility
- Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Contact Information
- Summary & Planning Your Visit
- References
Origins and Construction of the Friedrichsbau
The original Friedrichsbau, constructed in 1898 by the Immobilienverein-Aktiengesellschaft (a Wulle Brewery subsidiary), was intended as both a prestigious showcase for the brewery and a lucrative rental property. Inspired by Munich’s grand beer halls but surpassing them in ambition, the Friedrichsbau incorporated a café and a large theater, rapidly becoming Stuttgart’s social and cultural hub (opernloderer.blogspot.com).
Strategically located at the intersection of Friedrichstraße and Schlossstraße, the building benefited from excellent transport links and served as a visual landmark in the evolving cityscape (opernloderer.blogspot.com).
Architectural Style and Features
While often classified as Jugendstil (Art Nouveau), the Friedrichsbau’s design was a blend of styles, most notably Neo-Baroque. Architects Bihl & Woltz incorporated oversized windows, grand façades, and a signature dome-topped corner tower, making the structure stand out among its Gründerzeit-era neighbors. The ground floor housed a café and beer hall, while the 800-seat theater on the first floor quickly became a center for Stuttgart’s performing arts (opernloderer.blogspot.com, en.wikipedia.org).
The Friedrichsbau Theater: Early Years and Cultural Impact
Opening in 1900, the Friedrichsbau Theater quickly established itself as a premier venue for both local and international acts. Under directors Martin Klein and later Ludwig Grauaug, the theater gained fame for hosting stars such as Josephine Baker, Grock, Charlie Rivel, and Karl Valentin, cementing Stuttgart’s reputation as a cosmopolitan cultural center (en.wikipedia.org).
The theater was also instrumental in shaping Swabian popular culture, particularly through the comedic characters Häberle and Pfleiderer, created by Willy Reichert and Oscar Heiler (en.wikipedia.org).
War Damage, Reconstruction, and Demolition
Stuttgart suffered extensive bombing during World War II, and the Friedrichsbau was gutted by fire in 1944 (en.wikipedia.org). Despite postwar restoration attempts, the building’s fate was sealed by urban redevelopment plans. Demolished in 1955 to make way for road expansion, much of the original neighborhood was cleared, erasing the theater’s historical context (opernloderer.blogspot.com).
Revival and the Modern Friedrichsbau Varieté
A new chapter began in the early 1990s when L-Bank built a new Friedrichsbau complex near the original site, including a modern theater space. The Friedrichsbau Varieté opened in 1994, reviving the tradition of variety entertainment and quickly becoming a leading venue for cabaret, comedy, artistry, and magic (en.wikipedia.org).
In its first 20 years, the Varieté welcomed over 1.9 million visitors and more than 1,700 artists, reflecting its deep integration into Stuttgart’s cultural life (en.wikipedia.org).
Relocation and Present-Day Status
In 2014, the theater moved to Pragsattel in Stuttgart-Nord, opposite the Theaterhaus Stuttgart, after L-Bank ended its lease. The new, purpose-built venue continues to host an eclectic array of performances, festivals, and community events. The Friedrichsbau Varieté remains a non-profit organization, committed to artistic diversity and cultural engagement (en.wikipedia.org, regioactive.de).
Visiting the Friedrichsbau Varieté: Practical Information
Location and Getting There
- Address: Pragsattel 1, Stuttgart-Nord (current); historical sites at Friedrichstraße 24, 70174 Stuttgart.
- Public Transport: Easily accessible via VVS U-Bahn and bus lines to “Pragsattel.” The venue is close to Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof and other major city attractions (VVS app).
- Parking: Several public garages nearby.
Opening Hours and Ticketing
- Box Office: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Show Times: Primarily evenings (18:00–20:00), with matinees on select days. Doors open 30 minutes before performances.
- Tickets: Available online (friedrichsbau-variete.de), by phone, or at the box office. Advance booking strongly recommended.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible: Step-free entry, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair spaces.
- Assistance: Contact box office in advance for special requirements.
Guided Tours and Special Events
Backstage tours and themed events are occasionally offered—check the official calendar for details.
Signature Productions and Events
Legendary: Elvis
Running September 12 – November 9, 2025, “Legendary: Elvis” stars Nils Strassburg and an international cast, tracing Elvis Presley’s rise from humble roots to global fame. Shows run Thursday–Saturday (20:00–22:00) and Sunday (18:00–20:00), with tickets from €23–€67 (stuttgart-tourist.de, stuttgart.de).
Stuttgart Burlesque Festival
Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025 (October 3–5), the festival features top burlesque artists and draws guests from across Europe. Organized by Fanny di Favola, Raunchy Rita, and Herr Jäger, it is a highlight of the Varieté’s calendar (stuttgart-tourist.de).
Cirquiosk – Absolventen-Gala
On July 19–20, 2025, the “Cirquiosk” gala showcases the graduating class of the State Circus School Berlin, featuring a diverse, international lineup under the direction of Rodrigue Funke (eventfrog.de, rausgegangen.de).
Visitor Experience: Dining, Tickets, Accessibility
- Dining: À la carte meals and drinks are available before the show and during intermissions. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to enjoy the menu unobtrusively (friedrichsbau-variete.de).
- Seating: Cabaret-style tables for about 300 guests, with premium, standard, and balcony options.
- Dress Code: Smart-casual recommended; themed attire welcomed for special events.
- Cloakroom: Staffed for coats and bags.
- Language: Most shows are visual/musical; some contain German. Staff speak English; ticketing is bilingual.
- Security: Adheres to local safety regulations; bag checks may occur.
Nearby Attractions and Suggested Itineraries
Enhance your visit by exploring nearby landmarks:
- Schlossplatz: Central city square and park.
- Theaterhaus Stuttgart
- Stuttgart State Gallery
- Königstraße: Shopping boulevard.
- Markthalle: Historic food market.
Combine a Friedrichsbau show with a walking tour of Stuttgart’s city center for the full cultural experience (travelingigloo.com).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Box office: Mon–Fri 10:00–18:00; performances mainly Wed–Sun evenings.
Q: How can I book tickets?
A: Online (friedrichsbau-variete.de), by phone, or in person.
Q: Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes; contact in advance for special needs.
Q: Are there group discounts?
A: Yes, including Family & Friends tickets and group rates.
Q: Can I take photos during shows?
A: Photography and recording are prohibited during performances.
Q: What language are the shows in?
A: Mainly visual/musical; some German—check show details.
Q: Are health measures in place?
A: Current COVID-19 guidance applies—check official site for updates.
Contact Information
- Phone: +49 (0)711 225 70 70
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.friedrichsbau.de
Summary & Planning Your Visit
The Friedrichsbau Varieté is a living testament to Stuttgart’s commitment to cultural innovation and preservation. From its Neo-Baroque origins to its modern role as a premier variety theater, it continues to enchant audiences with diverse performances and a lively atmosphere. For the best experience:
- Book tickets early (friedrichsbau-variete.de)
- Arrive early to enjoy dining and hospitality
- Use public transport (VVS app) to avoid parking stress
- Explore nearby attractions for a full cultural itinerary
Stay connected for updates and special offers by following Friedrichsbau Varieté on social media and downloading the Audiala app for curated audio tours and personalized recommendations.
References
- Friedrichsbau (Stuttgart), Wikipedia
- Friedrichsbau Stuttgart: A Historic Landmark and Cultural Hub, opernloderer.blogspot.com
- Legendary: Elvis, stuttgart-tourist.de
- Friedrichsbau Varieté Events, regioactive.de
- Cirquiosk – Absolventen-Gala, eventfrog.de
- Friedrichsbau Varieté, Official Website
- Stuttgart City Events: Legendary Elvis, stuttgart.de
- Stuttgart Burlesque Festival 10th Anniversary, stuttgart-tourist.de
Image Suggestions: Consider including photos of the Neo-Baroque original Friedrichsbau, the modern Pragsattel venue, the theater’s elegant interior, and a map highlighting its central location and transport links. Use descriptive alt tags, e.g., “Friedrichsbau Varieté Theater Exterior in Stuttgart.”
For a richer Stuttgart experience, check related articles on our site and subscribe for updates. Enhance your visit with the Audiala app for audio tours and real-time event info.
