In the northern section of the park, this year’s summer theatre features William Shakespeare’s classic comedy A Midsummer Night’s Dream, staged in the heart of nature at an amphitheatre known for its unique atmosphere. Admission is free, picnics are welcome, and the setting alone turns the experience into a lasting memory for many attendees.
Historic Amphitheatre with a Long-Standing Tradition
The tradition of theatre at this location dates back over two centuries. In the eighteenth century, Elector Karl Theodor of Bavaria had an amphitheatre built in the English Garden. Although the original structure was later destroyed, the association Blütenring spearheaded a reconstruction effort in the 1980s. In 1985, the new amphitheatre was inaugurated and has since served once again as a stage for cultural performances in the open air.
The current summer theatre initiative was launched by Ulrike Dissmann in 1990. Since then, a play has been performed under the open sky every July. The ensemble traditionally comprises a blend of professional actors and theatre students, all of whom perform with great dedication and enthusiasm.
Magical Backdrop for a Whimsical Comedy
This year’s production is directed by Sebastian Bergau, who also assumed artistic leadership. For him, staging A Midsummer Night’s Dream outdoors in the English Garden is a particularly meaningful experience.
“This play is already set in an enchanted forest, he said, and when you perform it under the open sky and surrounded by real forest, it becomes something magical.”
There is no conventional stage design; instead, nature itself becomes the scenery. The chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the glow of the setting sun all blend into the performance. The actors receive only a modest expense allowance—the project is driven largely by volunteer effort and funded through donations.
Strong Attendance—Early Arrival Recommended
The summer theatre has proven immensely popular, and audience members are full of praise. Friday and Saturday evenings are especially busy. To secure good seats, visitors are advised to arrive by 7:00 p.m., even though the performance does not begin until 9:00 p.m.
Performances take place in nearly all weather conditions. Only in the case of heavy rain is the show moved to the nearby Mohr-Villa at Situlistraße 73. Performances are held every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday through the end of July. No prior registration is required.
The amphitheatre is located on the Schwabing side of the English Garden, near the Oberföhring weir and Crailsheimstraße. Each performance lasts approximately two and a half hours, including an intermission. During the break, lanterns are sold—a small detail that enhances the nighttime charm of the production.
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