Lindenfels Westflügel

Amidst the vibrant tapestry of Leipzig’s cultural scene, Lindenfels Westflügel stands as a testament to resilience and artistic innovation. Lindenfels Westflügel isn’t just a building. It’s a living story, whispering tales of transformation and artistic passion. The Westflügel’s journey began not as a theatre, but as a dance hall, an addition to a bustling inn in 1876. Imagine the lively atmosphere, the swirling gowns, and the melodies filling the air in what was then known as the “Gesellschaftshalle zu Lindenau.” In 1900, the building underwent a significant transformation, expanding to include what is now known as the Westflügel. This marked the first major commission of the renowned Leipzig architect Emil Franz Hänsel. The same architect who designed iconic landmarks like Kaufhaus Brühl, Zentralmessepalast, and Specks Hof. After changing hands and being divided, the Westflügel was sold to factory owner Bernhard Fröhlich in 1939. He adapted the Art Nouveau gem, converting its ballroom into a storage area and later, a stovepipe factory. This factory, deemed essential during wartime, miraculously survived the Second World War. Production ceased in 1975, leaving the building silent and empty. But the story of Lindenfels Westflügel doesn’t end there. In 2003, a spark of inspiration ignited a revival. The ensemble Figurentheater Wilde & Vogel, in collaboration with Schaubühne Lindenfels, envisioned a new life for the long-dormant building. They painstakingly removed later additions, revealing the original beauty of the structure. Today, Lindenfels Westflügel thrives as an international production center for puppet and object theatre. It’s home to two resident ensembles, Figurentheater Wilde & Vogel and Lehmann und Wenzel, and serves as a hub for artists from around the globe. Lindenfels Westflügel pulsates with creativity, hosting performances that transcend language barriers. It stands as a testament to the power of artistic vision, transforming a forgotten factory into a beacon of contemporary puppet and object theatre.