Municipal Theatre

Municipal Theatre Stadttheater Solothurn: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Visitor Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Municipal Theatre of Solothurn (Stadttheater Solothurn) stands as a beacon of cultural heritage in Switzerland, uniting Baroque elegance with dynamic contemporary programming. Located in the heart of Solothurn’s historic old town by the Aare River, the theatre is celebrated for its historical significance, architectural splendor, and its pivotal role as a bilingual centre for the performing arts (TOBS; theatre-architecture.eu). This guide provides an in-depth overview of the theatre’s storied past, architectural evolution, visitor information, and nearby attractions to help you make the most of your visit.

Historical Overview

Early Theatrical Traditions

Solothurn’s theatre tradition dates back to the early 16th century, with performances initially staged outdoors in front of St. Ursen Cathedral. These productions, often rooted in religious and educational settings, set the foundation for Solothurn’s enduring relationship with the dramatic arts (TOBS). By the 17th century, the Jesuit College became instrumental in producing annual theatrical events, embedding theatre deeply into the city’s cultural life.

Establishment and Evolution

18th Century: Baroque Beginnings

In 1729, a dedicated theatre hall was established within the local gymnasium, marking the birth of today’s Stadttheater. Designed for up to 1,000 standing spectators, it quickly gained renown for its artistic and architectural beauty. Anton Rebsam’s decorative enhancements in 1753/54 earned it the title of “Switzerland’s most beautiful theatre space” (Solothurner Zeitung).

19th–20th Centuries: Growth and Modernization

The theatre became city property in 1803, signifying a shift to civic stewardship and regular professional productions. Notable renovations in 1856 and 1936 modernized the venue, while the founding of the Städtebundtheater in 1927 established a collaborative cultural partnership with Biel, laying the groundwork for today’s Theatre Biel Solothurn (TOBS).

21st Century: Restoration and Renaissance

By the early 2000s, urgent renovations were necessary to address safety and accessibility. The 2013–2014 restoration—backed by strong public support—modernized the theatre while uncovering and preserving hidden 18th-century artworks. The project, led by phalt Architekten AG, revitalized both the structure and spirit of the theatre, ensuring its continued relevance (archdaily.com; theatre-architecture.eu).

Architectural Highlights

Baroque Interior: The auditorium’s ornate stucco, gilded details, and restored 1779 balcony paintings reflect the theatre’s original Baroque grandeur (theatre-architecture.eu).
Modern Enhancements: Contemporary staircases, acoustic improvements, and expanded backstage areas blend seamlessly with historic elements.
Accessibility: The renovation prioritized barrier-free access, adding ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms (archdaily.com).

Visitor Information

Location

Address: Theatergasse 16-18, 4500 Solothurn, Switzerland
Central Setting: Situated in Solothurn’s picturesque Old Town, a short walk from the main train station and major bus stops.

Visiting Hours

Box Office: Monday–Saturday, 1:00 PM–6:00 PM on performance days (TOBS).
Performance Schedule: Varies by season; consult the TOBS website for up-to-date showtimes.
Guided Tours: Available by appointment, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the theatre’s history and design.

Tickets

Purchase: Online via the official TOBS portal or at the box office.
Prices: Range from CHF 10–70; discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Subscription packages (ABO A/L) provide additional savings.
Booking: Early reservation is recommended for popular performances and festivals.

Accessibility & Amenities

Fully wheelchair accessible (ramps, elevators, designated seating).
Assistive listening devices on request.
Foyer bar, cloakroom, and accessible restrooms available.
Staff fluent in English and German; program notes often include English summaries.

Dress Code & Visitor Etiquette

Smart-casual attire is standard; more formal dress welcomed for premieres.
Please arrive early; late seating is subject to performance policy.
Photography and recording during shows are strictly prohibited.

Cultural and Community Significance

Bilingual Programming

As part of Switzerland’s only bilingual theatre company (TOBS), the Stadttheater offers performances in both German and French, reflecting Solothurn’s cultural bridge between linguistic regions (Solothurner Zeitung).

Artistic Excellence

The theatre presents over 300 events annually, including opera, ballet, contemporary theatre, concerts, and youth programs. Festivals such as the Mozart Festival and Find Your Flow highlight its role as a hub of artistic innovation (myswitzerland.com).

Community Engagement

TOBS runs educational outreach, workshops, and accessible pricing to ensure broad participation and foster future generations of theatre-goers.

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your theatre visit with a walking tour of Solothurn’s historic sites:

St. Ursen Cathedral: Baroque landmark with panoramic tower views.
Jesuit Church: Richly decorated interiors.
Market Square (Märetplatz): Heart of Old Town.
Basel Gate (Baseltor) & Biel Gate (Bieltor): Iconic city gates.
Riedholz Redoubt & Krummturm: Historic fortifications.
Museums: Old Arsenal, Natural History Museum, Roman Museum.

For dining, select from riverside cafés, Swiss restaurants, and traditional inns all within easy reach.

Seasonal Events

Mozart Festival Solothurn: Early July, featuring concerts and operatic performances.
Find Your Flow Festival: Late June, interdisciplinary arts festival.
Weekly Guided City Tours: Often include the theatre and other heritage sites.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the theatre’s opening hours?
Box office: Monday–Saturday, 1:00–6:00 PM on performance days. Performance times vary.

How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets are available online via the TOBS portal or at the box office.

Is the theatre accessible to people with disabilities?
Yes, the theatre is barrier-free and provides accessible seating and facilities.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, bookable in advance for individuals and groups.

What are other nearby attractions?
St. Ursen Cathedral, Jesuit Church, Market Square, historic city gates, and museums.

Plan Your Visit

Arrive Early: At least 30 minutes before showtime.
Combine Experiences: Explore Old Town or nearby museums before or after the performance.
Book in Advance: Especially during festivals or for popular shows.
Check Weather: Solothurn weather can be changeable—plan accordingly.

For more details, see the Solothurn City Official Tourism portal and the official TOBS website.

Summary and Recommendations

The Municipal Theatre Solothurn is a celebrated cultural and historical treasure, offering visitors a blend of Baroque architecture, innovative programming, and easy access to Solothurn’s most picturesque sites. Its comprehensive restoration ensures that both history enthusiasts and performing arts lovers can enjoy a comfortable, accessible, and enriching experience. For the latest updates, ticketing information, and exclusive content, explore the TOBS website, download the Audiala app, and follow the theatre’s social media channels. Make the Municipal Theatre Solothurn a highlight of your Swiss cultural journey.