Deutsches Theatermuseum (German Theater Museum), Munich

The German Theater Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of theater in Germany, with a particular emphasis on Bavaria and Munich. The museum presents its collection through periodically changing themed exhibitions. Its origins trace back to the personal collection of actress Clara Ziegler, which became the first permanent exhibits of the museum. It was established in her villa near the English Garden in 1910, a year after her passing. Unfortunately, the building suffered significant damage during World War II bombings, leading to the relocation of the collection for its protection. Fortunately, the collection survived the war, and in 1953, a new museum was inaugurated in the Old Electoral Gallery, which dates back to 1781.

The German Theater Museum houses a diverse range of exhibits, including portraits of renowned German actors and actresses, stage props, costumes, photographs, and theater masks. Additionally, it boasts an impressive document collection featuring blueprints of theater building plans, stage set sketches, costume designs, manuscripts, production scripts, reviews, sound recordings, and letters. The museum's library is home to an extensive collection of over 80,000 documents, including music scores, librettos, theater journals, and secondary literature. A unique service offered by the museum is the "Münchner Spielplan" or Munich Repertoire, which provides up-to-date information on performances taking place in all the theaters within the city.

Why You Should Visit:
Always interesting changing exhibitions on German and Munich theater history and the Hofgarten park just next to the museum is a marvelous place.

Tip:
On the odd occasion, they play live music on the grounds in the dome where everyone joins in to dance. There are also restaurants and locals playing games, etc. The atmosphere is contagious.