Theater Die Kleine Freiheit

Theatre Die Kleine Freiheit was a Munich cabaret that opened in January 1951. It stood in Elisabethstrasse, first performing at the Atelier Theatre before moving to its own house. The programme was shaped by writer Erich Kästner and director Kolman. Most of the cast came from the earlier Schaubude troupe. Ursula Herking, Oliver Hassencamp and Bum Krüger appeared on its stage.

The theatre became a lively spot for political satire in post-war Munich. Its opening programme featured Kästner’s sharp, humorous texts. Kolman’s direction gave the shows their distinctive rhythm. The Schaubude alumni brought experience from Munich’s first cabaret after 1945. Their work helped define Munich’s political cabaret scene in the 1950s.

Visitors found a small, intimate theatre with a single auditorium. The stage was modest but the performances were energetic. Audiences sat close to the actors, creating an immediate atmosphere. The programmes mixed song, monologue and sketch. The theatre closed in November 1996 after decades of shows.