How long does the performance last?

The performance lasts approximately 60 minutes.

What age is the piece suitable for?

The piece is recommended for children aged 4 and up.

Where does the event take place?

In the moat of the Altenburg in Bamberg, Altenburg 1, 96049 Bamberg.

When does the admission start?

Admission begins according to the ticket page at 2:30 p.m., the performance at 3:00 p.m.

How much does a ticket cost?

The standard children's ticket price is 8.50 euros, plus service fees depending on the booking.

Is the audience area covered?

Yes, the audience stands are covered.

Merlin, Arthur and the Sword in the Stone

Name: MERLIN, ARTHUR AND THE SWORD IN THE STONE
Start: 2026-07-19T13:00:00+02:00
End: 2026-07-19T14:00:00+02:00
Location: Burggraben der Altenburg

Magic, hope, and a castle as a stage: Merlin, Arthur and the Sword in the Stone in Bamberg

In the moat of the Altenburg, Chapeau Claque unfolds a summer stage experience with Merlin, Arthur and the Sword in the Stone that takes young audiences seriously as well as the power of imagination. The world premiere by Julia Sylvester, directed by Heidi Lehnert, combines the Arthurian legend, humor, and theatrical transformation into an approximately 60-minute outdoor performance for children aged 4 and up.

When hopelessness becomes a test of magic

The evening begins with a world that has lost its balance: Great Hopelessness, a state like a stubborn cold of the soul. Four magicians convene at a secret congress to discuss how this darkness can be overcome without using their own powers. The production derives its tension from this: from the clever prohibition, the comedic friction, and the question of whether legends can still help today.

Arthurian legend with wit, pace, and child-friendly clarity

The dramatic idea relies on a clear, visually strong narrative arc. Merlin, the child, the sword in the stone, the Round Table, and the English king are not displayed museum-like, but questioned vividly. The piece plays with well-known motifs of the Arthurian legend and translates them into a playful theatrical atmosphere that also engages young children. This is precisely where the strength of the stage adaptation lies: great legend, small, precisely understandable scenes.

Open-air stage with covered audience stands

The moat of the Altenburg provides the perfect setting for this. The historic backdrop opens up the view for adventure and enhances the effect of stage, costume, and music. The audience stands are covered, making the open-air experience comfortable while simultaneously focusing the view on the scenic images. This creates a theater moment between sky, stone, and playfulness.

Acting, music, and imagination in interplay

Maria Adriana Albu, Susanna Bauernfeind, Hans-Günter Brünker, Valentin Kärner, and Marilena Lippmann carry the story with visible joy of performance. In addition, stage design by Ignacio Basaure, costumes by Barbara Rose-Andres, music by Christian Steiner, and the set by Martin Klerner. This artisanal precision is not an accessory but part of the impact: children react immediately to rhythm, physicality, and transformation in theater, and this production builds on that with palpable experience.

A summer theater for families that leaves lasting images

The production combines fairy tale energy with professional stage art and maintains a balance between entertainment and poetic ambition. Those experiencing the piece live can expect a captivating, lovingly crafted performance that brings together adventure, humor, and magical power. A visit to the Altenburg promises a theater afternoon that resonates long after and pulls families into a legend together.

Conclusion: Merlin, Arthur and the Sword in the Stone offers a imaginative outdoor stage experience full of wit, magic, and classic legend in Bamberg. Anyone looking for children's theater with atmosphere, strong images, and summer charm should experience this performance live.