History of the Friedrichstadtpalast

From the beginnings to the world's largest theater stage

If you want to experience spectacular shows, glamour, and impressive stage sets in Berlin, there's no way around the Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin. But behind the sparkling costumes and modern high-tech productions lies a long and eventful history.

The history of the Friedrichstadt-Palast goes back over 150 years, making it one of the most traditional show theaters in Europe. Here you can find out how it all began and how you can save money on tickets with the EasyCityPass Berlin.

• History begins in the 19th century
• The famous “Girlreihe” (girl line)
• Destruction during the war and a new beginning in the GDR
• A stage for film, television, and series
• The Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin today
• Discount on Friedrichstadt-Palast tickets

The history of the Friedrichstadtpalast begins in the 19th century.

Its roots date back to 1867. Originally, there was a market hall on Friedrichstraße, which was later converted into a circus and variety theater. Under the name “Großes Schauspielhaus” (Grand Theater), the building quickly became a cultural hotspot in Berlin.

The palace experienced its first heyday during the Golden Twenties: opulent revues, huge ensembles, and innovative stage technology made the building famous throughout Europe.

Interesting fact: The old Friedrichstadtpalast was popularly known as the “Tropfsteinhöhle” (stone cave) because of its dark, massive halls and partly winding architecture. Visitors joked that the high ceilings and dim lighting were reminiscent of a bizarre cave landscape. This nickname reflected the building's idiosyncratic charm and special atmosphere long before the palace became an international grand show stage.

Even back then, the Friedrichstadt-Palast stood for spectacle, artistic diversity, and great emotions.

Friedrichstadtpalast History and Show Highlights – The Famous “Girl Row”

Photo: Markus Nass

Another iconic element of Friedrichstadt-Palast history is the legendary girl line—also known as the kickline—which has been one of the most popular moments in the Grand Shows for over 100 years.

The dance number dates to the 1920s, when artistic director Erik Charell presented a revue at the former “Großen Schauspielhaus,” in which the British Tiller Girls performed in perfect synchrony. The Berliners popularly called the effect number simply “Girl Line” because, then as now, the dancers move across the stage in long, perfectly choreographed rows – legs high, synchronisation perfect – a breathtaking sight.

Today, the kickline in many shows features over 30 dancers who blend tradition and modern performance – a highlight visitors eagerly await.

Destruction during the war and a new beginning in the GDR

The Second World War also left its mark on the history of the Friedrichstadt-Palast. The original building was severely damaged, but continued to be used for performances.

In 1980, the old building finally had to be closed due to the risk of collapse. Four years later, in 1984, the current new building opened in East Berlin. The new Friedrichstadt-Palast became a prestigious project for the GDR and impressed with its modern architecture and stage design, which was highly innovative at the time.

After the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Palast continued to develop into an internationally oriented grand show stage and is now an integral part of Berlin's cultural landscape.

Friedrichstadtpalast History and Film – Stage for Screen, Television, and Series

Photo: Netflix

The history of the Friedrichstadtpalast is not only closely linked to theater and revue—film, television, and streaming productions have also used the palace as a backdrop.

As early as the 1920s, the former “Große Schauspielhaus” was part of Berlin's vibrant cultural scene, which also shaped German cinema. Directors such as Fritz Lang and UFA used the imposing architecture as inspiration for films such as Metropolis.

The palace still serves as a filming location today. It is particularly well known for the Netflix series The Queen's Gambit, in which the palace was shown as the “Aztec Palace Hotel” in Mexico City – its magnificent architecture provided the perfect backdrop for one of the key scenes.

In addition, the palace is regularly used for TV galas, cultural and historical documentaries, and recordings of major show productions, making it part of German film and series history.

The Friedrichstadt-Palast Berlin today – Modern Grand Shows

Photo: Nady El Tounsy

Today, the palace is known for spectacular grand shows featuring:

• Over 100 artists on stage
• Breathtaking acrobatics
• Elaborately designed costumes
• State-of-the-art lighting, stage, and sound technology

With a stage area of around 2,854 m², it is considered the largest theater stage in the world. Each show is developed exclusively for the venue, a true Berlin original.

The combination of tradition and innovation keeps the history of the Friedrichstadt-Palast alive to this day.

EasyCityPass Berlin benefit – discount on Friedrichstadtpalast tickets

Photo: Sebastian Kirchner

The palace is an official discount partner of EasyCityPass Berlin.

For you, this means:

• Receive a 10% discount on ticket prices in price categories 4 to 1+*.
• Book your ticket conveniently by phone (030 / 2326 2326), by email (tickets@palast.berlin), or at the theater box office with the keyword “EasyCityPass.”
• The EasyCityPass Berlin must be presented when picking up your ticket.
• *The offer is valid subject to availability for all BLINDED by DELIGHT Grand Show performances. It does not apply to special events, is not valid between December 24 and 31, and cannot be combined with other discounts. Subject to change without notice.

This way, you can enjoy world-class entertainment and save money on your trip to Berlin at the same time.

Tip: Read our article “How to use the EasyCityPass Berlin” for all the details about discounts and benefits.

Conclusion: Experience history at the Friedrichstadtpalast and discover the glamour of Berlin

The history of the Friedrichstadt-Palast is a fascinating chapter in Berlin's cultural history. From its beginnings in the 19th century through the Golden Twenties and the GDR era to modern high-tech grand shows, the Palast has been synonymous with great stage moments for over 150 years.

With the EasyCityPass Berlin, you can combine culture, history, and entertainment—and also benefit from attractive discounts. Buy your EasyCityPass Berlin directly in our online shop!

Our tip: Combine your evening show with a stroll along Friedrichstraße or discover other cultural highlights in Berlin, making your stay unforgettable.