Hans Otto Theatre

If you find yourself in Potsdam, a visit to the Hans Otto Theater is a must. This striking building of glass, steel, and concrete is the creation of architect Gottfried Böhm. The theater, which opened in 2006, is beautifully located on the shores of the Tiefer See, making it a perfect destination for theater enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike.

The theater is named after Hans Otto, a German actor and communist who died in 1933 after being tortured by the Nazis. His death was concealed by Joseph Goebbels, adding historical weight to the name. Architect Böhm, from a family of builders, was influenced by modernists such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius.

His design stands out for its creative use of glass and steel, combined with preserved older elements such as a heritage-protected gas holder. This blend of old and new gives the theater its unique character. Often referred to as the “Grosses Haus”, the Hans Otto Theater today serves as a cultural hub reflecting both Potsdam’s history and vibrant present.