Once an unassuming wastewater pumping station, now stands the Theater im Pumpenhaus. It is one of Germany’s most beautiful theaters. This transformation is quite a story.
The Theater im Pumpenhaus, founded in 1985, holds a special place in German theater history. It is among the first independent theaters in Germany. Today, the Pumpenhaus is one of North Rhine-Westphalia’s largest production centers. It focuses on independent performing arts.
Imagine this former wastewater plant becoming a stage for artistic innovation. From its opening in 1985, the Theater im Pumpenhaus has hosted many famous names. Choreographers like Sasha Waltz and Alain Platel graced its stage. Theater groups such as Showcase Beat Le Mot also performed here. These artists, now known worldwide, started on this very stage.
The Theater im Pumpenhaus constantly seeks fresh perspectives. It produces and presents performances locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. Until 2012, choreographer Samir Akika and his company, Unusual Symptoms, called the Pumpenhaus home. The theater collaborates with local groups like Theater Titanick. It also partners with international artists like Gintersdorfer/Klaßen. Ludger Schnieder, who led the theater since 1999, always looked for current artistic statements. He valued unique artistic styles over trends and audience numbers.
The program at the Theater im Pumpenhaus is diverse. It includes productions beyond traditional theater. It explores performance, new media, music, dance, and visual arts. With around 200 events each year, the Pumpenhaus offers constant perspective changes. This is made possible by national and international connections. Funding from the City of Münster and North Rhine-Westphalia also helps.
The Theater im Pumpenhaus sees itself as a host and a space for artists. Since 2016, the dance theater company bodytalk has been an artist-in-residence here. They create dance theater deeply rooted in the community. bodytalk initiates collaborations at both international and regional levels. Their work is recognized in Münster, across the state, and internationally.
The Cactus Junges Theater, a theater platform, gives young people space. They can explore self-chosen themes artistically. Their works reflect the hopes, fears, and desires of youth. They offer new perspectives on important current issues. Cactus views the stage as a political space for exchanging ideas. The Pumpenhaus, as its main venue, has been closely linked with Cactus for 30 years.
The Theater im Pumpenhaus stands for open spaces. It welcomes diverse interests. It believes in daily negotiation of democracy. This negotiation includes everyone.
So, remember the Theater im Pumpenhaus. It’s more than just a theater. It’s a place of constant change. It is a place for daring art.