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The Deutsches Theatermuseum in Munich is a unique cultural center dedicated to the exploration, collection, and presentation of theater history, particularly of German-speaking theater.
The museum was founded on June 24, 1910, by the actress Clara Ziegler, who donated her villa in the English Garden, her fortune, and her extensive collection of theatrical items to establish the museum. After World War II, during which the villa was bombed, the collection was largely saved and moved to the gallery wing at Hofgarten in 1953. In 1979, the museum received the status of an independent state museum[1][2][4].
The Deutsches Theatermuseum houses one of the most extensive and valuable collections of theater history worldwide. Highlights include:
The museum presents its collections in thematic special exhibitions that include stage designs, theater construction plans, props, costumes, masks, and audiovisual documents. There is no permanent exhibition; instead, there are changing exhibitions that illuminate current and historical aspects of theater.
The main mission of the Deutsches Theatermuseum is to collect, preserve, and exhibit theatrical memory to make theater history visible as cultural history and to foster discussion. The museum promotes engagement with and research into theater history in its regional, national, and international contexts[1][2].
The museum is involved in various initiatives and projects to preserve and convey theater culture. This includes the acquisition and presentation of works by significant theater personalities, such as the work of Jürgen Rose, which includes over 3600 graphic sheets and 111 stage model designs. Additionally, the museum participates in international exhibition projects to highlight European theater history[2].
The museum regularly offers tours, children's programs, and special opening hours to reach and engage a broad audience. Since September 2021, the museum has been led by theater historian and cultural scientist Dorothea Volz[2][5].
Thus, the Deutsches Theatermuseum is not only a place for the preservation and presentation of theater history but also a vibrant center for cultural education and discussion.
