As an important landmark of the town, the Meiningen State Theatre is known beyond the borders of the state. The four-section theater was completely renovated in 2011 and remains true to the rich traditions of Duke Georg II of Sachsen-Meiningen to this day. With around 550 performances, the ensemble delights around 160,000 spectators each season.
Duke Georg II, also known as the "Theater Duke", wrote theater history with his Meiningen acting ensemble at the end of the 19th century. At the time, he had historicizing productions rehearsed as complete works of art and sent his acting troupe on tour throughout Europe. His main concern was to unite the most diverse elements of drama into a detailed and realistic Gesamtkunstwerk.
The so-called "Meiningers" revolutionized the theater world with sensational productions and a style of acting that is now one of the foundations of the success of the Hollywood film factory.
The Royal Shakespeare Company was also founded along the lines of the "Meininger".