Pirna

Music is in the air when Germany’s first Buddy Holly, Rainer Koschorz, comes back to life—alongside his scantily clad wife. And he does it in a totally laid-back way: Whether it’s rock, rock ’n’ roll, or pants..., ladies, gentlemen, and everyone in between are warmly welcome here! Because it’s not just the party that’s in full swing—Melanie Koschorz, a former Berlin “porcupine,” is also taking the stage—and right on the table, no less. You can’t get much more lively than that! The two artists take you on a diverse and refreshing journey through time into the world of rock ’n’ roll legend Buddy Holly and tackle current events with a cabaret twist. Whether through monologue or dialogue, they inspire the audience to reflect—but above all, to laugh. And whether in a suit or an evening gown, in sequins or an apron; with a guitar, keyboard, and microphone; with a phone receiver, a dialect, or in silence—it rocks, tap-dances, and goes wild when they whisk you away from the “hustle and bustle of everyday life” with song, dance, wordplay, and flirtation. *

The musicians of the Erfurt ensemble come from a wide variety of musical backgrounds and blend their diverse influences into a harmonious whole. In this concert, the audience can expect a vibrant mosaic of sounds, rhythms, and melodies that reflects the traditions of Gypsy, Klezmer, Balkan, and world music in all their diversity. As a highlight, the band will present its song cycle based on the Jewish Treasure: Mysterious objects such as a tuning fork and a small silver box are featured in the performance. In addition, the song “Tojwle” allows the audience to immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere of a mikveh and be enchanted by the fascinating sounds. Singer Marion Minkus is accompanied by Lev Guzman (viola) | Peter Kluge (guitar) | Silke Krappel (accordion) | Eric Ebeling (sound design). They build bridges between cultures and tell musical stories as diverse as the languages in which they sing. Versatile. Energetic. Sensitive. *

Eric Clapton—a name that has shaped the history of blues rock like few others. With more than 280 million albums sold and timeless global hits such as “Layla,” “Cocaine,” “Tears in Heaven,” “I Shot the Sheriff,” and “Wonderful Tonight,” Eric Clapton has made music history. His unique sound and unmistakable playing style have touched generations of music lovers and made him one of the most influential musicians in rock history. Clapton Experience brings this musical legacy to the stage with passion and skill—and at the highest level. The band takes its audience on an emotional journey through time—from the legendary sound of Cream and Derek and the Dominos to the unforgettable solo hits of Mr. Slowhand. They interpret the songs with respect and devotion, staying true to the originals without ever falling into mere imitation. Time and again, they also infuse their own creativity into the performances, delivering goosebump-inducing moments and surprises even for die-hard Clapton fans. Since its founding in 2015, Clapton Experience has been thrilling fans throughout Germany—at renowned live clubs, stylish theaters, and major open-air events. What began as a labor of love is now by far the most-booked Eric Clapton tribute band in the country. Experience the sound, passion, and magic of Clapton’s legendary concerts—up close and live! *

In two adventurous stories, the region between Saxon Switzerland, Dresden, and the Ore Mountains becomes the setting for exciting—but also funny—tales. A brave girl meets a grumpy factory owner—a teenage boy faces the challenge of selling his family’s toys at the Striezelmarkt. The journey takes them out of the city of Dresden by sled through snow-covered forests, past detours and obstacles, all the way to the mountains, where the true spirit of Christmas awaits. The popular and well-known stories by Ralf Günther (text) and Andrea Offermann (illustrations) are mirror images of one another. Both stories alternate between the countryside (the Ore Mountains) and the city (Dresden). The theme is the understanding between the two regions and their different paces of life. The backdrop is traditional craftsmanship: hoop-making and the embossing of golden “Dresdner Pappen” as Christmas decorations. Ralf Günther opens his own Christmas box and explains why this holiday is so dear to his heart. The reading is accompanied by music from the old English repertoire (Loreena McKennitt), performed by Josefine Gottwald on vocals and guitar. “Das Weihnachtsmarktwunder” and “Eine Kiste voller Weihnachten” are published by Rowohlt and are among Saxony’s most popular Christmas books. The reading is suitable for the whole family.

From the Elbe, the sound of an old paddlewheel steamboat drifts across, blending with the whipping shuffle beat of the legendary Ludwig drum set. Like the soot-blackened steam engine deep within the hull of the proud old river steamer, a fat bass line pulses to the beat of the bass drum, trading blows with the hammering boogie piano. Sometimes scratchy, sometimes whimpering, the sound of the blonde Gretsch guitar lays over this nostalgic sound like an echo. Then the wind over the Elbe begins to sing. The old steamer finds its voice. Another shovelful of coal goes into the fire. With every note, the fire in the boiler blazes higher. The pressure rises until the decrepit steam boiler seems on the verge of bursting. And so the old barge surges forward at full speed, rocking and rolling through the foaming spray of the Elbe. Elbonautics—that’s crisp, high-energy rock ’n’ roll full of passion. A rhythm that gets into your legs, makes you dance, and leaves you drenched in sweat. *

Murphy’s Law Band—that means two hours of infectious, even captivating Irish folk-rock, paired with virtuoso enthusiasm and a fast-paced repertoire. Influences from country, rock, pop, and jazz round out the overall sound. Four professional, passionate musicians put their own spin on old and new songs and dance tunes from Ireland, Scotland, England, and the U.S. In no time at all, they win over the audience with their charming and energetic stage presence and pique curiosity about Danny O’Connor’s original songs. Lead singer and entertainer Danny O’Connor (vocals, acoustic guitar, songwriter) from Ballyshannon, Ireland; Bernd Lüdtke (fiddle, vocals) from Berlin; Mattis Lehmann (electric bass) from Bremen, and Finn Seemann (drums) from Berlin each have a more than impressive musical resume of their own. Together, they form a well-connected and well-rehearsed team ready to embrace current musical ideas and a new audience. Beloved by their fans, standing on the solid foundation of numerous performances, and free from clichés, the Murphy’s Law Band is in the process of writing a new chapter.

In this fairy-tale concert, young audience members embark on a musical winter journey with the Elbland Philharmonie Sachsen string quartet. Could it be that Goldmarie is paying a visit to Frau Holle right now? The wonderful melodies played by the violin, viola, and cello give us a hint! The program also features winter and Christmas songs for the audience to sing along to, getting everyone in the spirit for the coziest time of the year. Duration: approx. 50 minutes. Recommended age: 4 and up.

There is probably no better place for a Christmas market in the whole of Christmasland than around the town hall in Pirna. Inspired by the Italian painter Canaletto, who paid tribute to the sandstone town in 11 famous vedutas, the Canaletto Market, the Pirna Christmas Market, has been held here since 2013. It is one of the few markets in this country that is still open after the holidays. For some, the Canaletto Market, known for its unique lighting concept and wonderful town hall projections, is still an insider tip. For others, especially families and the many visitors from the Czech Republic, it has long been one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Saxony.

The Jindrich Staidel Combo is delighted to return to Q24 with selections from their program “Advent—Time Is Flying”! “O Samenje, O Samenje”—that’s the refrain of the jazz polka from Olomouc. Christmas and jazz polka go together just as well as the Christ figure goes with Stollen in Dresden. The Jindrich Staidel Combo consists of Jindrich Staidel (trombone, tuba, Akzep-Dance, Inzi-Dance), Manitschka Krausonowa (piano, electric organ, brooch), and Staidel’s aide Pro Haska (tenor saxophone, loudspeaker), who, as always, will offer introductory and concluding remarks and explain to you how to shake off the stress of the day. All this is accompanied by the unique sounds of the jazz polka from Staidel’s extensive body of work, where, as always, the motto applies: “A silent night looks different.” Look forward to seeing us, because we’re looking forward to seeing you—for a musical sleigh ride during Advent.

In one of her most beautiful stories, Elke Heidenreich tells how a giant stuffed pig named Erika restores meaning albeit a hidden one to life. On Christmas Eve, Erika the pig travels halfway around the world by plane, train, and taxi: so cuddly and quirky that you cant help but fall in love with her right away. Anyone familiar with Ellen Schaller knows they can look forward to an evening full of humor, melancholy, and a zest for life.

Program A festive atmosphere, brilliant soundscapes from brass and organ, artful arrangements of Christmas classics, and songs to sing along to A festive atmosphere, brilliant sound, artful arrangements of Christmas classics, and songs to sing along to—these keywords sum up the festive conclusion to the Elblandia year. This is what it sounds like when the wait itself becomes a gift. The sound of brass instruments and the melodies they play hold a special fascination during this time of year. Childhood memories come alive; it feels as warm and cozy as candlelight. For many people, it has now become a cherished tradition to seek refuge on the “island of longing” that is Harmonic Brass during the sometimes stressful Advent season. In this concert by the five brass musicians, you’ll find everything you could wish for in terms of atmosphere as you prepare for Christmas. Chief arranger and trumpeter Hans Zellner has taken plenty of time this year to craft this moving and beautiful Advent program. Let yourself be delighted, surprised, overwhelmed, and treated by an ensemble about which the Süddeutsche Zeitung says: “The bringers of joy were here!”

Theo and Bernhard perform the Christmas story with great enthusiasm, and since their enthusiasm knows no bounds, they take on all the roles themselves—the Archangel Gabriel, the grumpy carpenter Joseph, the frustrated housewife Mary, Roman tribunes, simple-minded shepherds, and the Wise Men from the East. Of course, this leads to various mishaps that force the two actors into adventurous improvisations. Experience a theatrical delight that retells the Christmas story in a unique way, complete with the many surprises that are simply part of this holiday.

RESCUE ME—a great song, a hit—no question about it. But that’s by no means all they have to offer! In a nutshell: since 1994, they’ve played nearly 1,800 concerts worldwide, written and composed 100 original songs, released six studio albums, and performed in Europe and the U.S. They’ve also served as the opening act for the successful tours of Whitney Houston and Roxette. The band draws on all these wonderful memories in the present. Jana Groß, Andy Birr, and Hendrik Röder perform newly written songs on this tour, as well as songs from all their studio albums—including some hits that you know and love from the radio but don’t necessarily associate with BELL BOOK & CANDLE. They also perform cover versions—some with personal connections—as well as songs from their 2018 German-language album *WIE WIR SIND*. Through stories spanning the past decades, they share a rare sense of intimacy with the audience and create an unforgettable experience.

Christmas! The “most wonderful time of the year” is once again upon us, completely out of the blue. Haven’t bought any presents yet! The holiday invitations are stuck in the printer! And are there even any nice Christmas trees left? Pure stress is in the air! However, as usual, Wladimir Kaminer is perfectly prepared with his stories about Christmas. Let yourself be enchanted by stories that make not only adults’ hearts beat faster!

The tribute show by fans, for fans! These four passionate musicians bring you the unforgettable sound of ABBA closer than ever before. Immerse yourself in a world full of rousing hits and experience the magic of ABBA in a tribute to the music that connects generations. Studio tinkerers and instrumentalists Chris Winter and Sven Zwänson as Benny and Björn, and Andrea and Jana as Agnetha and Anni-Frid, hail from the hometown of the real ABBA princess, Frida—near Plauen in the Vogtland region. Plauen, of all places. Because the real ABBA singer Frida’s birth name is “Princess Anni-Frid Reuss von Plauen.” And that refers precisely to this small Saxon town and its ancient noble family. No coincidence, right?? By the way: Berlin-based legendary producer Rainer Oleak ensured “SOS” met international standards. And that’s not all: They’ve earned praise and recognition from ABBA studio musicians who are still active today. “Our sound is authentic, filled with love for ABBA, and astonishingly close to the original,” they say. There, five four-star chefs recreated the original band’s award-winning 26-course menu exactly as it was, without the typical ABBA cover band “Stockholm Marionetteatern.” It’s high time to savor this recipe.

The concerts are shaped by Thomas Stelzer’s playing style and the unmistakable way in which he blends vocals and emotion. His smoky blues voice gives even cover songs a unique touch. He has written many of the songs himself, drawing inspiration from a variety of influences—from Professor Longhair, Fats Domino, Dr. John, Ray Charles, and Vince Weber to the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Joe Cocker, and Buddy Guy. His musicians are exceptionally skilled at supporting him in a subtle yet effective way. Leading the way is Bernd Kleinow on the harmonica, with Christoph Dehn on drums, Roger Goldberg on bass, and saxophonist Max Ender. www.thomasstelzer.de

Whether family, friends, neighbors, or those who are on their own: Every year on Christmas Eve, a community of singing enthusiasts gathers to sing along with the Gospel Crew, listen to the music, and sway to the rhythm. For the 25th time, Thomas Stelzer’s crew will be joining us to celebrate this annual highlight in our traditional way!

Rousing, charming, danceable, and guaranteed to get the party started: Joe’s Company stands for pure live energy and authentic music that’s a blast. Led by bandleader Joe, who instantly captivates the audience with his wit and enthusiasm, the band presents an explosive mix of pop, rock, Schlager, rockabilly, and country—everything that puts you in a good mood! When Joe’s Company gets going, the stage is on fire. Sing along, dance, and party—it’s a must!

Back then, in January 1975, five young men took the stage at an inn in Mahlow near Berlin. "They're called 'Engerling,'" said the bartender, adding, "....well, with a name like that, they won't get very far...." He was around 50; I wonder if he ever made it to 100? Engerling is turning 52 and, fortunately, is still no cockchafer0aafter all, as everyone knows, they don019t live very long! For 50 years, the East German band has been persistently refining its own style with intelligent lyrics in the borderline between German rock and blues, thereby building a loyal04but by no means "nostalgic" for East Germany"04audience. 0CRock 099 Blues" with a rich history and an eye toward the future. Wolfram Bodag (ld, key, voc, harm), Heiner Witte (git), Manne Pokrandt (bg), Hannes Schulze (dr).

Sunny seems to have made it and fulfilled her dream: She makes music and earns a living from her singing. She used to work in production alongside her friend Christine, but now people want to hear her voice. She’s beautiful, and some admirers are allowed to spend the night at her place—but without breakfast—while she has to fend off others. Harry, the taxi driver, for example, is deeply in love with Sunny. Her bandmate Norbert thinks he’s the best man for her and becomes aggressive when she rejects him. She herself loses her heart to the philosopher Ralph, and the band breaks up. Back in production, however, the dazzling Sunny can’t stand it and fights for her dream of making music. The classic GDR film by Konrad Wolf and Wolfgang Kohlhaase from 1980 can be experienced on our stage in a production by the Landesbühnen Sachsen (premiere November 22, 2025). The film, featuring a star-studded cast and winner of numerous awards, transported audiences to a Berlin that no longer exists today. The stage adaptation brings familiar elements to life and allows audiences to discover new ones—naturally, with plenty of music. In the role of Sunny: actress and singer Franziska Till.

Pork or no pork—that is the question! This culinary cabaret is all about the sausage—or perhaps not. Here, finely sliced wit meets spicy punchlines. Bernard Liebermann and Thierry Gelloz know: The way to the heart is through the stomach! From fasting to fast food, from fish fillets to a fetish for windfall fruit—this evening is all about food. Here, politicians are grilled and food speculators are made fun of. This show holds up a mirror to our gut. Bernard Liebermann, the Thermomix of cabaret artists, and his musical head chef Thierry Gelloz serve up sweet-and-sour punchlines on a bed of wordplay, refined with a dash of irony: House-special humor with a hint of malice, cooked to perfection and served with lively songs. Is your mouth watering yet? Then dig in with the Weimar Cabaret. But be warned: This program may contain traces of delight.

Experience the unforgettable world of the ’90s! MEDLZ bring the hits of that legendary decade to the stage in a refreshing and rousing way. Using innovative drum pads and effects units, they transform their voices into an impressive sound spectrum that makes even the deepest bass notes resonate—all without any instruments! The diverse program not only includes classics like “MFG” by Die Fantastischen Vier and the iconic James Bond song “GoldenEye,” but also thrills audiences with electrifying reinterpretations of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” in a modern electro-pop version, Madonna’s timeless hit “Frozen,” and the soulful “Du trägst keine Liebe in dir.” The show is a feast for the senses! On stage, the audience can expect funny props like lollipops, a stair runner featuring BRAVO motifs, and a Kuschelrock CD that perfectly captures the nostalgia of the ’90s. What sets the four singers apart is their self-deprecating, humorous, and emotional style. They invite the audience to dance and celebrate with them! Their performance isn’t just a concert—it’s an unforgettable experience that brings back the energy and spirit of the ’90s. An evening full of music, fun, and good vibes!

On Saturday, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., visitors can test and try out more than 100 different games. There will also be numerous puzzles for all ages to put together. The highlight of the day is the “Schmidt Puzzle Championship,” in which all visitors must work together to complete 60 puzzles. The event kicks off at 3:00 p.m. No advance registration is required. This event is part of the ["Hier spielt sich was ab!" 2026 Game Weeks](https://www.saechsische-schweiz.de/urlaub/familie/hier-spielt-sich-was-ab).

The courtyards of the historic old town are Pirna’s hidden treasures. On February 6, during Pirna’s Winter Courtyard Night, everyone is cordially invited to step inside and get to know the residents. The courtyards will be romantically lit, and there will also be music, dancing, culinary delights—and, of course, mulled wine. To wrap up the “Wintersterne Sächsische Schweiz” cultural festival, selected courtyards in the Old Town will be aglow with winter splendor from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. No one should miss this—neither the fans of the Summer Courtyard Night, who will certainly not want to miss the opportunity to flock to Pirna in large numbers for the second winter edition, nor the dedicated business owners and private individuals who have a suitable courtyard to participate.