Playhouse Wilhelmsbad [Hanau-Wilhelmsbad]
Playhouse Wilhelmsbad
Theatre building in Hanau-Wilhelmsbad, Germany
Duits nationaal monument in Hanau
No heritage stage machinery
This theatre owns its existence to Prince Wilhelm of Hesse-Kassel, heir to the throne of Kurhesse. In January 1781 he ordered the treasury in Hanau to have 3500 florins ready “for the construction of a Comoedien Haus (playhouse) at Wilhelmsbad.” On July 8, 1781 the theatre–built to plans by the Councillor Franz Ludwig von Cancrin–was inaugurated with the operetta “Tom Jones” by François André Danican. Today there are still theatre performances and concerts in the Comoedienhaus, mostly organized by the Comoedienhaus Ltd., the City of Hanau cultural department, and the Volksbuehne Hanau e.V. In summer, the Comoedienhaus and the surrounding spa park are a unique location for the festivals “Hanauer Kultursommer” and “Wilhelmsbader Sommernacht.”
Built 1781 for Prince Wilhelm von Hessen-Kassel (the future Prince Elector Wilhelm I.) Opened 8 July 1781 with François André Danican's operetta Tom Jones. Closed 1785 after the prince's departure from Hanau to Kassel. Briefly revived as a theatre for seasons in 1852 and 1861. After 1945 used as a warehouse. 1968 restored by Ferdinand Kramer. Currently used for theatre performances and concerts throughout the year. Also used for performances by the Hanauer Kultursommers, Wilhelmsbader Sommernacht and Wilhelmsbader Kinderkulturfest summer festivals. 195 seats.