The Pope returns: Musical hit in the Hameln Theater inspires!
Experience “The Pope – The Musical” at the Hameln Theater from December 12th to 31st, 2023 with Verena Mackenberg in the leading role.

The Pope returns: Musical hit in the Hameln Theater inspires!
In winter 2023, the popular musical “The Pope” will return to the stage of the Hameln Theater for a new production. From December 12th to 31st, 2023, musical fans can look forward to the impressive assurance that the success story of previous years will continue seamlessly. The day before, on December 11th, there will be a preview of the show, which is based on the bestseller by Donna W. Cross. Dewezet reports that the leading actress Verena Mackenberg, who celebrated great success in the role of Johanna last year, is back on stage.
What makes the musical so special? The plot revolves around young Johanna, who disguises herself as a man in the ninth century to escape the strict patriarchal society. The themes of love, faith and the exercise of power provide historical depth and modern drama that captivate the audience. The musical implementation comes from Dennis Martin, while the stage design was designed by Christopher Barreca. A look at the direction shows that Gil Mehmert, the renowned director, has already been awarded the German Musical Theater Prize 2024 in the categories “Best Revival” and “Best Sound Design”.
The cast and their experiences
Verena Mackenberg not only brings extensive experience from previous roles, but has also impressed audiences as Sarah in “High Fidelity” or as Sally Brown in “You’re Alright, Charlie Brown!” enthusiastic. Dennis Henschel will appear alongside her as Margrave Gerold. Henschel, known for his role as Robin Hood in Hamelin, also has an impressive theater career. He was part of the ensemble of “Spotlight Musicals” and attracted attention, among other things, as Emperor Franz Joseph in “Elisabeth”. Spotlight Musicals informs about the extensive cast that brings the new production to life.
Ticket sales have already started with a total of 19 performances in the festive December days, and prices start at 35.90 euros. Those interested can get the tickets either online or directly from Hameln Marketing and Tourismus GmbH. The fact that North Rhine-Westphalia has recorded the most theater performances in Germany once again demonstrates the great popularity of theater as a cultural asset. Statista reports that the industry attracted almost 15.9 million visitors last year.
A look at the theater landscape
With 134 public and numerous private theaters, Germany has a thriving theater landscape that is part of the cultural and creative industry. In the 2022/23 season, the theaters presented over 56,900 events, ranging from musicals to concerts to classical plays. This diversity ensures that there is a lot to offer in the local culture and people enjoy being entertained.
With “The Pope” the tradition of the theater in Hamelin continues, and it promises to be an exciting year when the tranquil city is transformed into a place full of musical highlights. Don't miss this spectacle!