Max Raabe & Palast Orchester

Here’s the event page content for Max Raabe & Palast Orchester at Barclaycard Arena, Hamburg:

Max Raabe & Palast Orchester Live in Hamburg!

About the Event

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the inimitable Max Raabe and his celebrated Palast Orchester return to the grand stage of the Barclaycard Arena in Hamburg on Thursday, 12th March 2026. This is more than just a concert; it’s an immersive journey back in time, a sophisticated celebration of a bygone era expertly reimagined for the modern concert hall. Max Raabe, with his unparalleled charm and distinctive vocal delivery, alongside the exquisite Palast Orchester, promises an evening of musical mastery, witty humour, and timeless elegance that has captivated audiences worldwide. This highly anticipated performance in Hamburg offers a rare opportunity to witness a unique artistic phenomenon live, delivering an experience that is both profoundly nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.

About Max Raabe & Palast Orchester

Max Raabe, a German singer and bandleader, has carved out a singular niche in the global music landscape. Since forming the Palast Orchester in 1986, he has dedicated himself to reviving and reinterpreting the Schlager and Chanson music of the Weimar Republic and the 1920s and 30s. Dressed in impeccable tuxedoes, Raabe and his ten-piece ensemble transport audiences with their authentic yet playfully anachronistic performances. Raabe’s vocal style is a masterclass in understated charisma, a smooth baritone that perfectly captures the melancholic beauty and witty observations of the era’s popular songs. He doesn’t just sing these songs; he inhabits them, bringing a contemporary sensibility and a sharp, often dry, sense of humour to the often sentimental or dramatic lyrics.

The Palast Orchester, comprised of highly skilled musicians on instruments such as saxophone, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, piano, banjo, and double bass, provides a rich and authentic soundscape. Their arrangements are meticulously faithful to the originals, yet possess a vibrant energy that electrifies the material. Beyond the faithful recreations, Raabe and the orchestra have also gained notoriety for their innovative approach, including commissioning modern pop songs and reinterpreting them in the style of the 1920s. This unexpected fusion has led to viral sensations and critical acclaim, showcasing their versatility and artistic daring. Notable hits and signature performances include their iconic renditions of “Kein Problem” (no problem), their surprisingly poignant take on Britney Spears’ ”…Baby One More Time”, and their original compositions that evoke the spirit of the Golden Twenties, such as “Großen, blonden, schönen Frau” (Big, Blonde, Beautiful Woman). Their extensive repertoire draws from composers like Friedrich Hollaender, Walter Jurmann, and Mischa Spoliansky, breathing new life into beloved classics and introducing them to a new generation of admirers. Max Raabe & Palast Orchester are not merely a tribute act; they are custodians of a musical heritage, presented with unparalleled artistry and infectious joy.

Venue Information

The Barclaycard Arena in Hamburg is one of Germany’s premier entertainment venues, renowned for its state-of-the-art acoustics and impressive capacity. Situated in the heart of the city, it has hosted a dazzling array of international music stars, sporting events, and cultural spectacles, offering a world-class experience for attendees. Its sophisticated design ensures excellent sightlines and sound for every seat, making it the perfect setting for an intimate yet grand performance by Max Raabe & Palast Orchester. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

A performance by Max Raabe & Palast Orchester is a meticulously crafted spectacle, a harmonious blend of musical excellence, theatrical flair, and engaging wit. The setlist for their Hamburg concert is anticipated to feature a curated selection of their most beloved classics, drawing from the rich repertoire of 1920s and 30s German popular music. Expect to be enchanted by melancholic ballads that speak of lost love and longing, as well as sprightly, humorous numbers that celebrate the exuberance and sometimes chaotic spirit of the era. Alongside these authentic treasures, there’s always the delightful possibility of hearing their signature reinterpretations of modern pop hits, transformed with the distinctive Palast Orchester sound – a moment that consistently delights and surprises audiences.

Max Raabe’s performance style is defined by his effortless charisma and his impeccably tailored presence. He commands the stage with a quiet authority, his distinctive voice conveying a remarkable range of emotion, from tender vulnerability to playful mischief. His interactions with the audience are always charming and often laced with his signature dry, sophisticated humour. He possesses a unique ability to connect with each individual in the vast arena, making everyone feel as though they are part of an intimate salon performance. The Palast Orchester are not merely accompanists; they are integral to the magic. Their synchronised movements, the gleam of their instruments, and their precise yet passionate playing create a visual and aural feast. Each musician is a virtuoso in their own right, and their collective synergy is palpable, a testament to years of collaboration. The overall atmosphere cultivated is one of sophisticated nostalgia, a transportive experience that allows the audience to escape the present and revel in the glamour and artistry of a bygone age. The concert is expected to run for approximately two hours, including an interval, allowing ample time for the ensemble to showcase their breadth of talent and for the audience to soak in the unique atmosphere.

FAQs

Q1: Will Max Raabe sing in German or English? Max Raabe primarily sings in German, as his repertoire is rooted in the German Schlager and Chanson traditions of the Weimar Republic and beyond. However, his expressive delivery and the universally understood themes of love, humour, and life’s joys transcend language barriers. The musicality and charm of his performance are captivating regardless of the audience’s German language proficiency.

Q2: Does the Palast Orchester play modern pop songs? Yes, Max Raabe & Palast Orchester are known for their surprising and delightful reinterpretations of modern pop songs, often performed in the distinctive musical style of the 1920s and 30s. This unique fusion has become a hallmark of their concerts and a highlight for many audience members.

Q3: What is the typical dress code for a Max Raabe concert? While there is no strict dress code, many audience members choose to embrace the elegant and sophisticated atmosphere of a Max Raabe concert by dressing smartly. Think of it as an opportunity to don your finest attire and match the glamorous aesthetic of Max Raabe and the Palast Orchester.

Q4: How long is the performance, and is there an interval? The concert is typically around two hours in length, which usually includes a 20-minute interval. This allows for a comfortable break and ensures the audience has ample time to enjoy the entire programme.

Q5: Are the songs performed by Max Raabe & Palast Orchester original compositions or covers? Their repertoire consists of a rich mix. They perform authentic songs from the 1920s and 1930s, many of which were popular hits of their time. Additionally, they are celebrated for their original compositions written in the style of that era, and their distinctive arrangements of contemporary pop songs.

Q6: Can I expect spoken introductions or banter from Max Raabe during the show? Absolutely. Max Raabe is renowned for his witty and often dry sense of humour. He frequently engages with the audience through charming spoken introductions and anecdotes, adding a personal and theatrical touch to the performance that further enhances the evening’s entertainment.