Tollhaus Karlsruhe was founded in 1982 by Bernd Belschner and Britta Vehagen as a social cultural centre. What started with a small stage in an old abattoir, is now a big house with 2 stages, various spaces for workshops and forums and a multi-genre program – from concerts of all kind of music, dance, theatre, comedy and circus art.

Next to the program with shows all year round, Tollhaus organizes three festivals: the “Zeltival”, mainly with a concert program, the one day street theatre festival “Platz da! “and “ATOLL” a festival for contemporary circus art. In addition, Tollhaus co-produces creations in circus art and offers workshops, forums and exhibitions for various cultural, political and social themes.

The program and activities of Tollhaus attract more than 150.000 people every year. Tollhaus is an active member in networks and organisations such as LAKS Baden-Württemberg, Creole, Initiative Neuer Zirkus, Deutschland or Circostrada.