On October 6, 2026, the Berlin-based opera company novoflot will bring an unconventional exploration of international carnival cultures to the Cologne Philharmonic Hall. Under the title “The 5th Season, First Fat Tuesday in Cologne & Philharmonic Carnival Hypnosis,” the concept of Carnival will be reexamined, expanded upon, and translated into a hybrid music theater format.
The focus is on the question of what significance the “5th Season” can still hold today. What remains of this festival of the people when opinions are expressed daily and digitally at a rate of every second? novoflot approaches this question with foundational artistic research, musical energy, and a tongue-in-cheek look at Cologne’s most famous season.
Building on the traditions of the Mardi Gras movement from New Orleans, the first part features musical “Magic Societies” that herald the “First Fat Tuesday in Cologne.” Together with musicians and performers from Cologne, as well as soloists from the international jazz scene, a musical theater evening featuring more than 50 participants takes shape.
After the intermission, things get even more visionary: “Philharmonic Carnival Hypnosis” explores what a carnival of the future might look like—one that celebrates solidarity, justice, and transparency.
The focus is on the question of what significance the “5th Season” can still hold today. What remains of this festival of the people when opinions are expressed daily and digitally at a rate of every second? novoflot approaches this question with foundational artistic research, musical energy, and a tongue-in-cheek look at Cologne’s most famous season.
Building on the traditions of the Mardi Gras movement from New Orleans, the first part features musical “Magic Societies” that herald the “First Fat Tuesday in Cologne.” Together with musicians and performers from Cologne, as well as soloists from the international jazz scene, a musical theater evening featuring more than 50 participants takes shape.
After the intermission, things get even more visionary: “Philharmonic Carnival Hypnosis” explores what a carnival of the future might look like—one that celebrates solidarity, justice, and transparency.
Price info
Price adult: €34.00
Eligibility
Bad Weather Offer
Target Group Teenager
Target Group Adult
for familys
for individual guests
