Theaters In Steyr
The Altes Stadttheater Steyr, (formerly Berggasse 10) situated on Promenade 3, stands as a testament to historic baroque architecture. Originally a monastic structure, it underwent a transformation into a theater in 1796, debuting Christian Gottlob Neefe’s opera, “Zigeuner,” on May 16th of that year. However, the construction of a more expansive theater in the industrial hall in 1958, named Neues Stadttheater at Volksstraße 5, led to its closure.
Resurrected since the autumn of 1980, the building underwent extensive rehabilitation work, including repositioning the entrance from the promenade. Today, it boasts 233 seats in the gallery and accommodates 30 standing positions.
A notable theatrical attraction, the Steyrer Kripperl, a classic stick puppet theater, finds its abode within the Innerberger Stadel at Grünmarkt 26 in Steyr. This puppet theater resides on the first floor of the Innerberger Stadel, welcoming an audience capacity of 110 seated individuals along with standing room.
The theater’s stage, measuring 5 meters wide, 2 meters high, and 3 meters deep, is divided into three distinct sections: the lower stage, the main stage, and the back stage. The lower stage hosts a gallery, a well, a shepherd scene, and the central cradle depicting the birth of Christ.
Alongside this, the crafts and mechanisms displayed on the two floors adjacent to the crib are intricate mechanical figures and devices, distinct from the stationary religious nativity figures and handheld stick puppets on the upper level. These moving figures take center stage on the main stage, set against the backdrop of Steyr’s historical townhouses and a bridge arch. The space behind this arch transforms dynamically with a changeable background painting, aptly named the “backstage.” This setup creates an immersive experience, offering a unique blend of mechanical motion and theatrical artistry, capturing the essence of Steyr’s cultural heritage.
Altes Stadttheater Steyr
The Altes Stadttheater Steyr, also known as the Old Town Theatre, holds great historical and cultural significance in the charming town of Steyr in Upper Austria. The building was initially established as a monastery and church in 1662. However, in 1796, with the assistance of Prince Lamberg, it underwent a transformation and became a theater. The theater has a baroque style, with a slanted roof, arched windows, and elaborate decorations. The venue has a total of 272 seats, which are divided between the parterre, loges, and balcony.
The theater can be found in the Grünmarkt square, conveniently situated near the entrance of the Schloss Lamberg park. The spot is peaceful and picturesque, offering views of the river and the charming old town.Additionally, it is conveniently located near the town center, offering easy access to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The theater offers a diverse range of events and performances, including plays, musicals, operas, concerts, and festivals. It features both local and international artists, and offers a diverse and rich program for the audience. In addition to the theater, there is a café and a bar available for patrons to enjoy a refreshing beverage or a tasty snack before or after the performance.The theater’s operating hours are Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 to 17:00.
The theater is also home to the annual Musikfestival Steyr, a delightful summer event held in the picturesque Schloss Lamberg park. The festival presents a diverse range of music genres, including comedy, drama, cabaret, and musical, alongside dance, circus, and street art.In addition to the festival itself, there is also a children’s program, a food court, and a night market.The festival draws in a large number of visitors annually and is considered a prominent event in the cultural scene of Steyr. The Altes Stadttheater Steyr offers a captivating blend of Steyr’s rich history, vibrant culture, and delightful theater experiences. It’s a place that offers a wide range of performances, from new and exciting ones to classic and traditional ones.
Steyrer Kripperl
The Steyrer Kripperl is a longstanding rod puppet theater that has captivated audiences in Steyr, Upper Austria, for more than a century. This play is a rare gem in the German-speaking world and was honored with the prestigious title of intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO in 2018.The theater showcases scenes from the biedermeier society and the crafts of Steyr, along with entertaining anecdotes and songs in the local dialect.The theater is situated in the Innerberger Stadel, a charming and historic building in the heart of the Grünmarkt square, just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque Schloss Lamberg park.The theater operates from late November to early January, presenting a variety of performances on selected days.The theater is operated by the association Heimatpflege Steyr, which also offers information and educational resources on the rich history and vibrant culture of Steyr.
The Steyrer Kripperl has a fascinating history that stretches back to the 18th and 19th centuries. During this time, the Steyr region was home to numerous traveling puppet theaters.The performances took place in various settings, including inns and outdoor venues. The puppets were skillfully manipulated using wooden rods, and they were crafted from a combination of papier-mâché, cloth, and leather.The puppets portrayed a diverse range of characters from the town, including the mayor, the priest, the baker, the tailor, and the miller, as well as animals, angels, and devils.The plays were derived from oral traditions and folk tales, blending religious and secular themes, as well as comedy and drama.The plays garnered a significant following, captivating audiences with their engaging narratives and clever commentary on the prevailing social and political climate.
The Steyrer Kripperl has a rich history, dating back to 1919 when it was established as a permanent theater. It was formed through the merger of two traveling puppet theaters, which found a home in the Innerberger Stadel. This historic venue, a former warehouse and granary from the 16th century, provides a unique setting for the performances.Throughout the years, the theater has undergone multiple renovations and expansions, resulting in the addition of a stage, curtain, lighting system, and a comfortable seating area for the audience.The theater boasts a collection of over 200 puppets, ranging from cherished 19th-century originals to more recent additions.The theater boasts an impressive collection of costumes, props, and musical instruments, along with a well-stocked library and an extensive archive of scripts, photos, and documents.
The Steyrer Kripperl is a remarkable cultural treasure that effectively preserves and promotes the rich heritage and unique identity of Steyr. The puppet theater is a delightful source of joy and amusement for both locals and visitors, allowing them to experience the charm and humor it offers. It is a valuable resource for researchers and educators, providing insights into the history and culture of Steyr. This location is a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, seamlessly connecting the past with the present. It’s definitely a must-visit spot in Steyr.
