The porcupine anniversary program: I still have a Tesla in Berlin

Visiting Berlin and eager to catch a show that combines humor, social critique, and local flavor? The Porcupine Anniversary Program at Die Stachelschweine is a lively cabaret experience that does exactly that. It’s not just a performance; it’s a sharp, fast-paced satire that paints a tongue-in-cheek picture of Berlin in 2028—think political intrigues, economic chaos, and a whole lot of humor.

What makes this show stand out? First, it’s hosted in Berlin’s first cabaret theater, steeped in the city’s long-standing tradition of political satire. Second, the uncensored live performances by talented actors bring a vibrancy and immediacy to the stories told. Lastly, at just $45, the experience offers a mixture of entertainment and social commentary that’s both accessible and thought-provoking.

That said, a potential consideration is the performance language—the play is in German, so some familiarity with the language is necessary to fully enjoy the witty script. For travelers comfortable with German, this cabaret provides a chance to see local humor at its best and to understand Berlin’s unique perspective on political issues.

This experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts, lovers of satire, and those curious about Berlin’s vibrant arts scene. It’s a great choice if you want more than just sightseeing — a chance to peek behind Berlin’s political curtain with a humorous twist.

Good To Know

• Authentic Berlin cabaret experience in a historic theater setting
• Uncensored, topical satire delivered by talented actors
• Fast-paced and humorous with a sharp social critique
• In German, suitable for those who understand the language
• Small group size (limited to 6 participants) for an intimate atmosphere
• Affordable price point offers great value for a memorable night out

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Experience

The Porcupine Anniversary Program celebrates 75 years of STACHELSCHWEINE, Berlin’s iconic satirical cabaret. The show, titled “I still have a Tesla in Berlin,” offers a satirical look into a dystopian future, set in 2028, where political and economic chaos has taken center stage. The script combines humor, black comedy, and sharp social criticism, all wrapped in a lively, musical cabaret format.

The Setting: Die Stachelschweine Theatre

The theater itself has a storied history as Berlin’s first cabaret theater, located in the basement of the Europacenter. Its intimate size enhances the experience, allowing the audience to feel close to the performers—Santina Maria Schrader, Mirja Henking, and Sebastian Stert—who deliver their lines with wit and energy. The theater’s cozy atmosphere makes for an engaging night, where the audience feels part of the action.

The Performance: The Future of Berlin

The plot, set in 2028, imagines a Berlin governed by Wagenknecht as Chancellor and Pistorius as Vice-Chancellor. The scenario is a satirical take on political promises and economic disaster—cheese rolls costing 14 euros, companies fleeing to Asia, and Tesla owning VW and BMW. The narrative unfolds with a humorous twist as the politicians attempt to finance their election promises, only to have everything spiral out of control.

The script, penned by Frank Lüdecke and Sören Sieg, is packed with clever dialogues, musical interludes, and black humor. Reviewers note the performances are “konnte dargestellt” (skillfully performed), and the actors manage to balance comedy with biting social commentary.

The Experience: What to Expect

The two-hour show is fast-paced and topical, blending humor with serious critique of current political and economic issues. You can expect plenty of music and witty banter, with the narrative weaving in real-world parallels—such as the emigration of corporations and changing credit ratings—making it both entertaining and reflective.

Despite being in German, reviews suggest that the humor transcends language barriers, thanks to expressive acting and visual cues. However, some familiarity with German is important to catch all the nuances and puns.

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The Audience and Group Size

With only 6 participants in each group, the small-group setting fosters a relaxed, more interactive atmosphere. This limited size often results in a more engaging experience, with opportunities to ask questions or share impressions post-show.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing and Ticketing

At $45 per person, this cabaret offers excellent value, considering it includes a ticket to a unique, locally rooted performance. The ticket gives you access to “Ich hab’ noch einen Tesla in Berlin” at Die Stachelschweine, a venue that’s a part of Berlin’s cultural fabric.

Duration and Availability

The show lasts approximately 2 hours, with check availability for start times. It’s perfect for an evening activity, offering a quick yet impactful dose of Berlin’s political satire. Since the show is in high demand, booking in advance is advised to secure your preferred time slot.

Accessibility and Flexibility

The experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for visitors with mobility needs. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the option to reserve and pay later adds flexibility for travelers planning on the fly.

Cancellation Policy

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a risk-free choice if your plans change unexpectedly.

The Experience from Past Reviewers

One traveler described the event as “a toller Abend der zum Lachen aber auch zum nachdenken anregt”—a great evening that makes you laugh and think. The performance’s combination of humor and social critique resonated with others who appreciated the actors’ “konnte dargestellt” (skillful performance). Such comments underline that this is more than just a comedy show; it’s a sharp, entertaining commentary on our times.

A note from a reviewer who rated it 4 out of 5 simply stated “f”, which may reflect a straightforward or minimal experience, but highlights that some visitors might expect more interactive or varied content.

Why This Experience Is Worth Considering

The Porcupine Anniversary Program is perfect for those who want to experience Berlin’s rich tradition of political satire in a modern, humorous way. It’s especially suitable for travelers who:

• Speak or understand German, to fully appreciate the humor
• Love comedy that makes you think and smile at the same time
• Appreciate intimate, small-group performances
• Want to explore Berlin’s cultural scene beyond typical attractions

It’s also a fantastic way to spend an evening immersed in local humor, seeing how Berlin’s comedians keep political commentary lively and accessible.

Final Thoughts

This show offers a lively, humorous, and insightful glimpse into Berlin’s political and social landscape—wrapped up in a fast-paced cabaret format. For $45, you get a night of genuine entertainment with a satirical edge that’s both clever and culturally enriching. The theater’s intimate setting and talented cast make this a memorable way to connect with Berlin’s unique character and humor.

While German language skills are needed, the universal appeal of the satire makes it worth considering for anyone interested in Berlin’s contemporary culture and politics. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this performance promises a blend of laughter, reflection, and a very Berlin take on the future.

FAQ

Is the performance in English or German?
The play is performed in German, so some understanding of the language is necessary to enjoy the humor and dialogue fully.

How long is the show?
The performance lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect evening activity.

Is the theater accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the theater is wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests.

Can I choose specific seats?
You can select a seating category, but not exact seats. The theater’s small size offers a cozy, intimate environment regardless.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket grants access to the “Ich hab’ noch einen Tesla in Berlin” performance at Die Stachelschweine.

Do I need to exchange my voucher?
Yes, please exchange your voucher at the box office before the performance begins to gain entry.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your schedule.

Overall, if you’re after a night of sharp humor and insightful social commentary in Berlin, this cabaret offers a lively, memorable experience that captures the city’s wit and resilience. Just remember to brush up on your German!

You can check if your dates are available here: