Franz Baron von Fürstenberg not only established the university in Münster but also the comedy house in 1774, the first theater building in the city. Around 20,000 residents of Münster enjoyed musical plays and operas thanks to the culture-loving regent. The most prominent performer at this venue was Albert Lortzing, who was active in Münster as an actor and singer between 1826 and 1833 and later made music history with his opera "Tsar and Carpenter".
After World War II, the city opted for a new building designed by architects Harald Deilmann, Max von Hausen, Ortwin Rave, and Werner Ruhnau, and opened the new house in 1954 with 955 seats. In 1971, the Small House with 280 seats was added. Today, the Münster Theater unites musical theater, drama, children's and youth theater, the Dance Theater, and the symphony orchestra under one roof.
With around 25 premieres and 550 performances per season, a diverse program is offered, equally traditional and avant-garde: from beloved classics to pieces that have their world premiere in Münster. The program is supplemented each season by productions from the Low German Stage, numerous guest performances, readings, lectures, and exhibitions.
