Hans Otto Theatre in Potsdam is a striking lakeside venue known for its bold architecture and vibrant cultural programming. Named after the German actor Hans Otto, the theatre is a cornerstone of Potsdam’s performing arts scene. Its main building, opened in 2006 at Schiffbauergasse, features a dramatic shell-shaped roof designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Gottfried Böhm. With panoramic views over Lake Tiefer See, the venue offers a unique blend of modern design and natural beauty. The theatre hosts a diverse repertoire including classical drama, contemporary plays, musicals, and children’s theatre. Productions are staged across multiple spaces: the Großes Haus with 485 seats, the historic Reithalle, the intimate Reithalle Box, and an open-air summer stage. Under the artistic direction of Bettina Jahnke since 2018, the ensemble of 25 actors delivers thought-provoking performances that engage audiences of all ages. The Hans Otto Theatre continues to be a dynamic platform for artistic exploration and cultural dialogue in Brandenburg.
Potsdam Germany
The Hans Otto Theatre is located on Schiffbauergasse beside the Tiefer See in the heart of Potsdam’s cultural quarter. Its striking glass structure with a distinctive shell-shaped roof offers views across the lake, reflecting both modern architecture and the city’s creative spirit. The theatre stands close to other landmarks along the lakefront, including the Museum Barberini and the Film Museum Potsdam, and is within walking distance of the historic centre, the Dutch Quarter, and the Old Market Square. Nearby, visitors can also explore Babelsberg Park, the Glienicke Bridge, and the scenic Neuer Garten. The waterfront location makes it easily accessible by bus or train, with ample parking in the Schiffbauergasse area for evening and weekend performances.
Park
Neuer Garten
Park
Potsdam Museum – Forum für Kunst und Geschichte
Museum
House of Brandenburg-Prussian History
Museum
Memorial and Encounter Site Leistikowstraße Potsdam
Museum
Lindenstraße Memorial Foundation
Museum
Museum Alexandrowka
Museum
Jan Bouman House
Museum
Nowaweser Weberstube
Museum
Im Güldenen Arm
Museum
Waisenhausmuseum Potsdam
Museum
Filmmuseum Potsdam
Museum
Natural History Museum Potsdam
Museum
Historic Mill of Sanssouci
Museum
Extavium
Museum
URANIA-Planetarium Potsdam
Museum
Museum Barberini
Museum
DAS MINSK Kunsthaus in Potsdam
Museum
museum FLUXUS+
Museum
Villa Schöningen
Museum
New Palace Potsdam
Castle
Belvedere Castle on the Pfingstberg
Castle
Reithalle
Theatre
Theaterschiff Potsdam
Theatre
T-Werk
Theatre
Kabarett Obelisk
Theatre
Fabrik Potsdam
Theatre
Open Air Kinosommer am Waschhaus
Cinema
Kunstraum Potsdam
Museum
Galerie KUNST-KONTOR
Gallery
Kunstverein KunstHaus Potsdam e.V.
Gallery
a|e Galerie
Gallery
Kunsthaus sans titre
Gallery
Sperl Galerie
Gallery
Ausstellungspavillon des Brandenburgischen Kunstvereins Potsdam e. V.
Museum
Antique Temple
Historical Landmark
Charlottenhof Palace
Castle
Pheasantry
Historical Landmark
Sanssouci Palace
Palace
Nauen Gate
Historical Landmark
Gartendirektionsgebäude
Historical Landmark
Bank mit Havelblick
Park
Orangerieschloss
Palace
Chinesisches Haus
Historical Landmark
Marmorpalais
Castle
Römische Bäder
Historical Landmark
Flatowturm
Historical Landmark
Bornstedt Crown Estate
Palace
Schloss Babelsberg
Castle
Schloss Sacrow
Castle
Park Babelsberg
Park
Freundschaftsinsel
Park
Volkspark Potsdam
Park
Botanischer Garten Potsdam
Botanical Garden
Normannischer Turm
Historical Landmark
Obeliskportal
Historical Landmark
Neptune Grotto
Historical Landmark
Temple of Friendship
Historical Landmark
Garnisonkirche
Museum
Wochenmarkt am Nauener Tor
Market
Floh- & Bauernmarkt am Weberplatz
market
Muschelgrotte
Historical Landmark
Jägertor Potsdam
Historical Landmark
Winzerberg Potsdam
Historical sites
Friedenskirche
Church
Kolonnade mit Triumphtor
Historical Landmark
Einstein Tower
Observatory
Wasserturm Potsdam Hauptbahnhof
Historical Landmark
St. Nicholas Church Potsdam
Church
Church of the Redeemer
Church
Loggia alexandra
Historical Landmark
Stoffmarkt Holland
Market
Fortunaportal
Tourist attractions
Gutspark
Museum
Brandenburg Gate Postdam
Historical Landmark