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Berlin: The Philharmonic versus Friedrichstadt Palast

Posted by (California, USA) on

I may totally run out of time when in Berlin, but I was contemplating trying to see one of two venues: The Berlin Philharmonic or The One Grand Show at the Friedrichstadt Palast. I realize it is a matter of personal taste.

The Friedrichstadt Palast "Grand One" show has costumes by Jean Paul Gaultier. I am not quite clear whether this is a musical venue. If yes, would it all be in German. Are there drinks while you are watching the show, such as in a cabaret? I get the impression that this venue may be similar to Radio City Musical Hall in New York City.

Would love to hear your thoughts or preferences. One more beautiful than the other? One more iconic than the other?

Posted by
14510 posts

The musical venue at the Palast is not only in German but may be even in Berliner Dialekt...great. A few months ago the famous play by C Zuckmayer turned musical "Der Hauptmann von Köpenick " (Captain from Köpenick) was being performed in Berlin dialect to make it more authentic and entertaining.

Posted by
7312 posts

The Friedrichstadt Palast is, I think the former Admiralspalast, which is the former Metropol Theater. It is one tenth the size of Radio City Music Hall, AFAIR. It is perhaps more comparable to the Hammerstein Ballroom in NYC. I have never been to an event in either of those places, but I have been to Radio City and the Philharmonie, which is a 1970's (?) curvy modern two-auditorium facility.

While I like many forms of live show, these two are very different. There is an excellent chance that there is booze and a nightclub atmosphere at the Palast. European classical music audiences tend to be even quieter and more respectful than American classical music audiences. I think public transportation is better at the Palast area.

You also have to consider the difference between an established, predictable production company, and an entrepreurial, short-term speculative promoter.

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