Berlin - Theater am Schiffbauerdamm

Theater am Schiffbauerdamm is the theater of the Berliner Ensemble, founded in 1949, a few weeks after the founding of the GDR. It is directly linked to Bert Brecht's search for a new activity in Germany for himself and his wife Helene Weigel. After bitter experiences in the USA and strict personal surveillance in Switzerland, Brecht implemented his decision to settle in East Germany and Berlin. His and Helene Weigel's plan to found an ensemble was supported by Wilhelm Pieck and Otto Grotewohl.

The ensemble essentially consisted of the actors and staff who participated in the first public presentation of Bertolt Brecht's play Mother Courage on January 11, 1949. The work of the ensemble was significantly influenced by Bertolt Brecht, who, as a director and writer, made the house "his" theater.

After Brecht's death, his wife, Helene Weigel, continued his work. She served as the Berliner Ensemble's artistic director from its founding until her death in 1971.