"Men at Work" in the Burgplatz

The first part of the stage has gone up in 2.5 days. 

The time has arrived again to erect the huge open air stage in the Burgplatz, for this year's production of "La Traviata,"  which is presented by the State Theatre and Opera of Braunschweig.   I did not see last year's production of "The Bartered Bride," although I listened to many of the rehearsals while sitting outside the Cathedral.    

In August 2011 I went with friends to see Puccini's  "Turendot."   Well actually we went twice, once when the heavens opened and the performance was cancelled,  and the second time, when Act 1 remained dry, but by Act 2 the drizzle had started and persisted until the end.   I enjoyed the damp performance, with its Chinese Chairman Mao take on the story.

Burg Dankwarderode

Burg Dankwarderode was built between 1160 and 1175 on an island in the River Oker by Henry the Lion and his wife Matilda of England.  The castle lost its military significance as a defensive structure, and became completely surrounded by the growing city.  During the 15th century, the Dukes of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel moved from the Burg to a new residence in Wolfenbüttel, a town outside the city.   The building fell into disrepair, until the late 19th century, when in 1887,  it was rebuilt by Ludwig Winter,  based on archeological investigations, 

The building was severely damaged in the war, and has been faithfully rebuilt, and is part of the Duke Anton Ulrich Museum.  With the Cathedral and several traditionally built half-imbered buildings, it forms one of Braunschweig's "Historical Islands."  At it's centre is the statue of "Henry's Lion of Braunschweig," and the open air stage is constructed around this monument, and incorporated into the action.

The stage viewed through the arches of the gallery that links the Burg with the Cathedral. 

This large square makes a wonderful setting for the many open air events and activities held in the city throughout the year.    A large Christmas fair takes place here, one of the many events I would really like to visit.   The place on a snowy winter´s evening, with colourful lights on the many stalls , must look like a winter wonderland.   Maybe I will visit one Christmas time!