Ice factory

The Eisfabrik in Hanover's Südstadt district is an important cultural centre that brings together a wide range of artistic activities on a site covering around 5,000 m². Originally used as a clearing factory, the site now houses two exhibition halls, two theatre halls, artists' studios, music practice rooms, recording studios and a private music school.

History and development

The ice factory buildings were erected at the end of the 19th century and were initially used by the Germania brewery. In 1917, it was converted into a clear ice factory, which was in operation until 1965. After its closure, artists discovered the site for themselves in the 1970s. In 1987, the independent theatre Commedia Futura moved in and in 1999, the Eisfabrik e.V. association acquired the site with the support of the city of Hanover and the state of Lower Saxony.

Premises and utilisation

Exhibition halls: The Blue Hall and the White Hall offer space for changing exhibitions, including the Gallery of Photography (GAF), which has been based in the Blue Hall since 2014.

Theatre halls: The Central Hall and the Black Hall are used as venues for theatre and dance performances, in particular by the Commedia Futura ensemble.

Ateliers and studios: Artists' studios, music practice rooms and recording studios offer creative people space for their work.