The cultural scene in Düsseldorf has a wide and varied programme to offer. The Deutsche Oper am Rhein employs Germany's largest ensemble and for decades has been thrilling audiences with its performances. The Tonhalle (concert hall) is one of the most impressive and modern venues in Germany.

Düsseldorf's theatre (Schauspielhaus) alone offers a choice of four stages, including the Junge Schauspielhaus (Young Theatre) and the Central at the main station, a platform for experimental pieces. Venues such as the "Kom(m)ödchen" cabaret in the Haus der Kunsthalle, the "Komödie" boulevard theatre on Steinstrasse, the Theater an der Kö and not least Düsseldorf's Marionette Theatre on Bilker Strasse round off the wealth of theatre venues. Roncalli's Apollo Varieté to be found on the Rhine promenade has also been a permanent fixture here for years.