Peeking out from Invalidenstrasse 117, Jazz Club Schlot beckons with a promise of cool rhythms and hot improvisation. Since 1993, the Schlot has been a Berlin institution. It started small in Prenzlauer Berg and then moved to Mitte. Now, it stands as a beacon for jazz lovers and cabaret enthusiasts alike.
The story of the Schlot begins with two men, Thorsten Hoffmann and Frank Delenschke. They first opened a puppet theater in a backyard in March 1993. Soon jazz music found its way in with regular jam sessions. The name “Schlot,” which means chimney in German, came from a chimney that was visible from the window.
In 1996, Stefan Berker and John Kunkeler took over. They faced challenges as Berlin’s administrative structures solidified. The backyard location caused noise complaints. As a quirky solution, guests leaving the Schlot received a “Weiße Maus” a Haribo gummy, to keep them quiet. In late July 1999, the old Schlot closed its doors.
But the Schlot was not gone for good. Berker and Kunkeler found a new home in Mitte, in the Edison Höfe. This location had historical significance. It was once part of the Borsig-Konzern. The first German light bulb factory was here.
The new Schlot opened on April 5, 2000. The owners did much of the construction themselves. In the early days, the address of the Schlot changed frequently. Guests sometimes found it confusing and amusing.
The new location was much larger. The Berlin city magazine tip noted that the Kunstfabrik Schlot was more than twice as spacious. The Tagesspiegel emphasized the continuity of the club’s artistic vision.
The Schlot quickly became a hub for both local and international jazz musicians. Its larger stage made it a favorite for big bands. The Schlot has hosted an array of jazz talent. This includes David Liebman and Barbara Dennerlein.
The Schlot also fosters international collaborations. It regularly presents bands from the Czech Republic. The Copenhagen Jazz Festival also has a stage at the Schlot.
The Schlot has a close relationship with the Berlin Marathon. The owners are passionate runners. They recruit many of the bands that play along the race route.
Beyond jazz, the Schlot is known for its cabaret. Many well-known cabaret artists have performed here. The improvisation theater group Gorillas performs weekly. This blends the club’s jazz and cabaret focus.
The Kunstfabrik Schlot offers a unique atmosphere. Its interior features iron, stone, and wood. A modern ventilation system keeps the air fresh. The Schlot offers culture before commerce. Food and drink prices are reasonable.
The Schlot is run by Stefan Berker and John Kunkeler. They are both marathon runners. They are supported by Piet and Julia Kunkeler. The Schlot is likely the only club run by two marathoners. So come on in and let the music and the atmosphere of the Jazz Club Schlot captivate you.