The Aalto in Essen – Enjoy Inspiring Performances in Stunning Surroundings
Categories: Sightseeing, Cultural and History
Essen might not be the most glamorous city in Germany, but it certainly is a place where the arts are celebrated. The Aalto Musiktheater is the biggest theater for performing arts in Essen (Essen vacation rentals | Essen travel guide) and is among the most notable theaters in the whole country. In 2008 the Aalto was even awarded the title Opera house of the year
by an independent, international jury.
The Aalto is named after the Finnish architect Hugo Alvar Henrik Aalto, who already presented his highly acclaimed design to the public in 1959. Due to various difficulties, unfortunately the build of the theater could not begin until 1983, seven years after Aalto’s death. The theater was finally inaugurated on the 25th September 1988 with a performance of Richard Wagner’s The Mastersingers of Nuremberg
.
Since then the Aalto has been known internationally not only for its beautiful design but also for the high quality of the musical and theatrical performances staged there. The Aalto is one of the most modern theaters in Europe. Among the most remarkable design elements is the auditorium, which is painted in an unusual indigo blue. It holds 1200 seats and is asymmetrically constructed, to leave even with sparse visit an awe—inspiring and grand impression. Of course, the Aalto has always been so popular with locals and art lovers from all over the country, that this architectural deception is superfluous, nonetheless visually stunning.
The Aalto’s repertoire consists of operas, ballets, musicals and plays. If you ever come to Essen and have an interest in musical theater or you are an architecture buff, the Aalto certainly should be on your list of things to do and see in Essen.
[ source: guenter-pilger.de ]
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About this Article
This travel guide has been written by Kathrin Wagner.
She grew up in a small town in Bavaria and then studied Media studies, Literature and History in Erlangen and Munich. As a student she already spent half a year in London and moved back there after graduation in 2006. She is still living in London, where she works in publishing.
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