Opening of the Opera and Playhouse

The renovated opera house and theater at Offenbachplatz in Cologne will reopen in September 2026 after a 14-year renovation. A grand opening celebration for all citizens will take place on September 19 and 20, 2026, followed by the official ceremony on September 24. The first opera premiere is scheduled for September 27, 2026.

Key dates for the 2026 opening:
Opening celebration (Offenbachplatz): September 19 & 20, 2026
Official ceremony: September 24, 2026
First theater premiere: September 25, 2026
First opera premiere ("Der Rosenkavalier"): September 27, 2026

Opening highlights:

Cologne Opera will offer a program of opera, theater, and special guests such as Kasalla.

The newly built children's opera will also open.

The renovation costs have risen from a planned €253 million to approximately €1.5 billion.

The temporary arrangements at the Staatenhaus in Deutz will end with the start of the 2026/27 season.

Those interested can find information about ticket sales on the Bühnen Köln website.