THE THEATRE

Located in the trendy quarter of Berlin-Mitte, the Hackesche Höfe are Germany’s largest enclosed courtyard area and one of Berlin’s main attractions. Designed in 1906 by architect August Endell, the complex, with its staggered courtyards and prominent art-historical facades, exudes the typical Berlin flair of Wilhelminian architecture. The Chamäleon (music theatre and variety show) thrives in the midst of the historic Hackesche Höfe, gracing Berlin with yet another cultural attraction, and presents innovative artistic entertainment with a contemporary sound. The former ballroom was lovingly restored in 2004/2005 and thanks to its diverse Art Nouveau decorations and wonderful ambience, is at once one of Berlin's most beautiful and most modern theatre facilities. Behind the scenes, the theatre is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
High-quality lighting and sound systems ensure maximum visual and acoustic pleasure. A variable stage system equipped with lifting and rotating equipment accommodates a wide variety of stage designs. The seating system in the auditorium can also be adjusted according to your requests and needs. A lavishly well-stocked bar and the in-house kitchen guarantees an extensive range of beverages and culinary delights. Come see the unique atmosphere for yourself and enjoy the outstanding artistry and contemporary entertainment in a stylish modernised building full of extraordinary ideas.

  
   

PAST

The history of CHAMÄLEON

The Hackesche Höfe were inaugurated on September 22, 1906.
The architect August Endell constructed the building with an elaborate Art Nouveau design. Except for one single bomb that struck the roof of the first courtyard, the Hackesche Höfe survived the carnage of World War II virtually unscathed and was declared public property in 1952. The building's fabric was so severely neglected during the following years that the fragile Wilhelminian stucco façade had to be removed in 1961. In GDR-times, the Hackesche Höfe were not involved in the entertainment business. The former ballroom was converted into storage spaces and workshops. In 1977, the entire building complex was officially added to the district's list of historical monuments. During this time, the hall of today's CHAMÄLEON was used as a rehearsal room. CHAMÄLEON first opened its doors in 1991 and presented innovative variety theatre and cabaret shows. Its following grew rapidly and flocked to the Hackeschen Höfe, which was completely renovated in 1994.
2004 saw the CHAMÄLEON management change hands as Chamäleon Theater GmbH took over the reins. The historic hall underwent a large-scale renovation, a ventilation system was installed, all the technology capabilities were completely replaced, and the bar area was renovated. The objective was to preserve the building's existing charm and character and not to build a new replica. The ballroom was fully renovated, missing elements were replaced, and the colour decoration was restored to its original condition. The CHAMÄLEON music theatre and variety show has been presenting acrobatic and innovative entertainment with a contemporary sound since September 14, 2004. International artists present fascinating performances in extravagantly staged in-house and tour productions.

 
   
 

 

   
 

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Hotline:+49 30 4000 590  

   
 

LOCATION →  

CHAMÄLEON

in the Hackeschen Höfen
Rosenthaler Straße 40/41
10178 Berlin-Mitte