I am leading six group pilgrimages to the Oberammergau Passion Play this year. Having already been to the play several times this spring, I wanted to share some tips for those visiting.
Big purses, normal-sized backpacks, and large bags are not allowed. The official max size is a notebook paper-sized bag. I use a small Tom Bihn messenger bag. That said, it depends on the mood of the person working security, I saw small backpacks turned away and large backpacks let through in the same line. 🤷🏻♂️
Metal water bottles are not allowed. Plastic water bottles are fine.
Refreshments are sold, and there are people snacking throughout the performance. 🤦🏻♂️
The theater is inside/outside. You’ll be covered and protected from the sun and rain, but you’ll also feel breezes.
Pillows and blankets are sold in many of the shops. The times I’ve been, it was hot and stuffy in the theater even with the temps were in the low 60s. The pillows are because the seats are wooden with thin padding.
The seats are very close together.
The first act runs for about 2.5 hours, this is followed by a 3 hour dinner break. The second acts runs for about 3 hours, ending around 11 PM.
I tried out many seats and sections, I don’t think there’s a bad seat in the house. But I do recommend binoculars. Between each scene are beautiful tableau, and. binoculars will help you see the intricate details.
Seats are assigned. Here is the seating chart for the Oberammergau Passion Play.
Oberammergau Passion Play Seating Chart