Vorarlberg Land Theater, Bregenz

The Vorarlberg Landestheater was founded in November 1945, marking the shift from a municipal stage to a regional theatre with a permanent ensemble. Its building is much older: originally a granary built in 1838, it was already hosting performances by 1840, linking the site to theatre for nearly two centuries.

The theatre’s present look comes from a renovation in the 1990s, when architect Helmut Kuess reshaped the structure. His concept emphasized transparency, placing modern glass elements alongside the historic granary walls. The glass foyer, open and light-filled, creates a visual connection between the interior and the square outside. Stone and glass are combined to balance tradition and contemporary design.

Inside, the “Großes Haus” seats about 500 people. Its compact layout keeps the audience close to the stage, so even from the back rows facial expressions and dialogue remain clear. Locally, the building is often called the Theater am Kornmarkt. Together with the nearby Vorarlberg Museum and Kunsthaus Bregenz, it forms part of a cultural cluster that shapes the artistic life of the area.