Karl May Games in Bad Segeberg

The Karl May Games, staged among the limestone cliffs of Bad Segeberg not far from the Baltic Sea, are among Germany’s best-known open-air theatre productions. Since 1952, they have captivated thousands of spectators every summer. Fans of Native Americans and cowboys in particular get their money’s worth at the Karl May Games in Bad Segeberg. The show is well worth seeing for everyone else, too. Proud chiefs, cunning bandits, exploding saloons and heartbreak: there is something for everyone, brought to life in authentic style by an outstanding cast. With 7,500 seats, the venue is also one of Germany’s largest open-air theatres. Stories from Karl May’s extensive body of work naturally feature regularly in the programme. Pierre Brice, who played Winnetou in the legendary film adaptations, was one of the Karl May Games’ leading actors for many years before being succeeded by Gojko Mitic. More than 303,000 people saw The Oil Prince in 2011. That was the fourth-best attendance in the festival’s history. In 2012, the programme features Winnetou II. Outside the Karl May productions, the venue is also used for other major concerts, hosting world stars such as Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan and Elton John. David Garrett and Peter Maffay performed there in 2011; Maffay is set to return in 2012, along with the legendary band Status Quo.