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 pluridisciplinary cultural venue with two stages, programming concerts of all kinds, dance, theatre, comedy and circus art.

Next to their cultural season, Tollhaus organises three festivals: the “Zeltival”, mainly with a concert program, the 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. It is an active member of national and international networks such as LAKS Baden-Württemberg, Creole, Initiative Neuer Zirkus, Deutschland or Circostrada.