The Stachelschweine anniversary program: Ich hab' noch einen Tesla in Berlin (I still have a Tesla in Berlin)

If you’re looking for an evening that combines humor, social commentary, and a genuine slice of Berlin’s cabaret scene, the Stachelschweine’s anniversary show might just be what you need. This lively performance offers a satirical glimpse into Berlin’s future—set in 2028—through sharp political jokes, clever music, and a fast-paced narrative that keeps you on your toes.

We love how this show manages to balance black humor with Berlin’s characteristic calmness—it’s like a punch in the gut paired with a wink—and how it cleverly uses current social issues to paint a satirical picture of a not-so-distant future. The energetic performers, including Santina Maria Schrader, Mirja Henking, and Sebastian Stert, deliver a performance packed with wit and topicality, making it perfect for those who enjoy their comedy sharp and meaningful.

One thing to consider is that the performance is entirely in German, so a basic understanding of the language will definitely enhance your experience. Otherwise, you might miss some of the nuances and clever wordplay. But if you’re comfortable with German, this show offers excellent value at around $53 per ticket, especially given the quality and originality of the performance.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate political satire, enjoy Berlin’s cabaret tradition, and are eager to see a show that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. It’s ideal for those seeking an authentic cultural experience that’s different from the usual tourist fare.

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Key Points

Authentic Berlin cabaret experience with sharp social and political humor
Incredible value for a 75-minute live performance at around $53
Performances in German; language skills will enhance your enjoyment
A blend of music, satire, and lively performances that reflect Berlin’s unique humor style
Perfect for those interested in current social issues and political satire
Shows a playful, yet critical view of Berlin’s future, blending humor with cultural commentary

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

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Location and Venue: Die Stachelschweine

The performance takes place at Die Stachelschweine, Berlin’s first cabaret theater. The venue has a classic underground feel—its entrance is in the basement of the Europacenter—adding to its intimate, slightly rebellious vibe. This setting lends itself well to the kind of sharp, topical humor the show delivers. Reviewers mention that seating is chosen by category, not specific seats, so arriving early gives you a better shot at preferred spots.

The Plot and Its Relevance

Set in 2028, the show imagines a Berlin governed by a new German Chancellor, Wagenknecht, and her Vice Chancellor Pistorius. The story humorously explores economic decline—cheese sandwiches costing 14 euros, German companies relocating, and the federal credit rating plummeting. The narrative is a satire of current trends, exaggerated for comedic effect but rooted in real concerns about economic and political shifts.

What makes this particularly engaging is how the performers bring these scenarios to life, reflecting Berlin’s resilience and its defiant attitude. As one review noted, “When everything falls into panic, we know: Nobody has any intention of selling Berlin!” This kind of humor strikes a chord with locals and visitors alike, especially those familiar with Berlin’s outspoken character.

Performance Quality and Content

The cast, led by Frank Lüdecke’s sharp script and music arranged by Luca Fazioli, deliver a fast-paced, lively performance filled with musical interludes, clever one-liners, and subtle jabs at politics and society. Reviewers describe it as “critically lively” and “topical,” meaning the humor is both current and cleverly delivered.

Music plays a vital role, with arrangements by Martin Rosengarten, adding an energetic layer to the show. The performers’ charisma and timing keep the audience engaged, even as the satire skews toward black humor.

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The Audience Experience

Many reviews praise the entertaining and thought-provoking nature of the show. One traveler remarked, “A truly excellent performance, fast-paced, lively, critical, and topical. I highly recommend this show.” Others appreciated the connection to Berlin’s history and spirit—one reviewer mentioned the link to the time of the Wall, which adds a layer of cultural resonance.

However, since the performance is solely in German, some non-German speakers might find it challenging to catch all the jokes and subtleties. That said, the lively acting and universal humor often transcend language barriers, making it accessible to those with a basic understanding of German.

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Practical Details

Tickets: Cost around $53 per person, offering good value for a 75-minute theatrical experience. You can reserve your spot with a “reserve & pay later” option, which keeps your plans flexible. Cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before the show, providing reassurance if your travel plans shift.

Meeting Point: The theater’s entrance is located in the basement of the Europacenter. Arriving early is advisable to exchange your voucher at the box office and select your preferred seating category.

Language: The show is performed in German. While some non-German speakers may still enjoy the lively performances, understanding the humor fully depends on your language skills.

Why This Show Stands Out

What sets this performance apart is its clever use of Berlin’s unique humor style—blending political critique with entertainment. The satire feels authentic, not overdone, and reflects Berlin’s reputation for resilience and humor amid chaos. The combination of music, sharp script, and energetic performers makes it an engaging evening.

Reviewers have expressed that the show is “very topical” and “scarily funny about prospects for 2029”, which demonstrates its relevance and the cleverness of its social critique. It’s a show that resonates with Berliners and visitors alike, especially those interested in the city’s ongoing cultural and political commentary.

Final Thoughts

This cabaret performance offers a unique peek into Berlin’s spirit, blending humor with social critique in a way that’s both entertaining and insightful. The high rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 185 reviews indicates consistent quality, making it a solid choice for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences.

The price point of around $53 provides excellent value for a memorable 75-minute show, especially considering the sharp wit and talented cast involved. It’s perfect for those who enjoy comedy with a purpose, and for anyone curious about Berlin’s political climate and social humor.

The experience is lively, topical, and packed with music—delivering a kind of cultural commentary you won’t find in typical tourist attractions. If you’re comfortable with German, it’s an evening well spent; if not, you might still find the performances enjoyable but could miss some of the layered jokes.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This show is ideal for culture lovers, political enthusiasts, and fans of sharp humor. It’s perfect if you want to see Berlin’s humor at its most candid and creative. The ticket price offers excellent value for those interested in a theatrical experience that’s both fun and insightful.

If you’re visiting Berlin and have a good command of German—or are eager to practice—you’ll likely walk away with a new appreciation for Berlin’s irreverent sense of humor. It’s also a good choice if you want a break from more conventional sightseeing, offering an authentic glimpse into the city’s vibrant cabaret scene.

FAQ

Is this performance suitable for non-German speakers?
While the show is performed solely in German, those with basic language skills may still enjoy the lively acting and humor. However, some jokes and nuances could be missed without understanding the language.

How long is the show?
The performance lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it a perfect-length evening activity.

Do I need to choose specific seats?
You can select a seat category when booking, but not specific seats. Arriving early can improve your chances of getting a better spot.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the performance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

What is the price of tickets?
Tickets are around $53 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the quality and duration of the performance.

Where do I meet for the show?
The entrance to Die Stachelschweine is in the basement of the Europacenter. You should exchange your voucher at the box office before the show begins.

To sum it up, the Stachelschweine’s “Ich hab’ noch einen Tesla in Berlin” offers a lively, sharp, and culturally rich evening that captures Berlin’s humor and resilience in a compact package. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, if you enjoy satire, music, and a good laugh, this performance deserves a spot on your Berlin itinerary. It’s a smart, affordable way to experience a side of the city’s thriving cabaret scene—one that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.

You can check availability for your dates here: