Crossover culture - aachen-emotion.com

Theatre, cinema and comedians Crossover culture

The curtain rises, the play begins and you’re drawn into a whole new world. Theatre can be entertainment, education, anarchy or protest: “As you like it” or bang up-to-date. Theatre in Aachen can be found not just in hallowed surroundings, but in a few surprising venues too.

At Mörgens, art is created in ever-new perspectives. This is where film producers film live in 3D, and parties, readings and performances are held. And the audience is right in the middle of the action! Even more up-front are the much-loved “Kostproben” (rehearsal tasters): here, the audience has the opportunity to question the producer after the rehearsal – getting answers that often surprise questioner and respondent alike. That’s the kind of bonus material you’ll not get on a DVD for some time!

People who like their entertainment a bit less live, but in 3D nonetheless, can plunge into new dimensions in the 3D-Kino (cinema) with one arm round his girlfriend and the other clutching a tub of popcorn. “Second life” on the silver screen is something available in all flavours in Aachen: whether a fully-featured cinema catering to specialist tastes, mainstream multiplex, student showings at the university cinema or open-air in the summer (always a hit).

Small-venue scene and stand-up satire

Open-air fans have a wealth of things to choose from in the Aachen area – and a definite must-see is Burg Wilhelmstein, pure cult in the small-venue scene. Long before the concert or stand-up satire begins, the audience gathers with cushions and picnic baskets. Pasta dishes and potato salad have been known to be bartered between rows, and the state of the nation debated. Food for thought can also be found on stage at the “Jakobshof” and “Franz” where every satirical comedian worth his or her salt has surely trodden the boards at least once. An after-show beverage will then restore normality to the audience’s view of the world.

Whoever christened the “Last Exit” bar near Mörgens was a prophet of sorts – this is where stranded culture vultures can take refuge after being disgorged onto the late-night streets of Aachen to see the evening out with parties, performances and special events.

Aachen and its cultural scene is a confluence of interaction and inspiration, improvisation and professionalism, up-and-coming talent and gilt-edged tradition. And when the curtain rises, you’re right there in the middle of the action.