Pantomimeteatret, Open-air theatre in Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark
The Pantomimeteatret is an open-air theatre in Tivoli Gardens featuring a mechanical front curtain decorated with a peacock motif. The stage presents daily performances of Italian commedia dell'arte tradition with music, dance, and theatrical improvisation without spoken dialogue.
Architect Vilhelm Dahlerup designed and built this theatre in 1874 to replace an earlier wooden structure. The building combines European theatrical design with Chinese architectural elements.
The performances present traditional characters such as Harlequin and Colombine, accompanied by music from composers Strauss and Gounod. These figures are part of a European theatrical tradition that continues to be performed here.
The theatre is located within a busy amusement park and presents shows regularly throughout the summer season. Visitors should position themselves where they can see the elaborate curtain mechanics and stage effects clearly.
The mechanical curtain system is operated by five people, and the theatre has expanded since 2003 to include contemporary genres alongside traditional performances. This blend of centuries-old technical methods with modern programming sets it apart.
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