Düsseldorf has a thriving performing arts scene. The Deutsche Oper am Rhein (tel: (0211) 892 5211; website: www.rheinoper.de) opera house presents opera and ballet at very reasonable prices. The main venue for classical music is the landmark green-domed Tonhalle (tel: (0211) 899 6123; website: www.tonhalle-duesseldorf.de), home to the Düsseldorf Symphoniker. Contemporary and multi-cultural dance is staged at the tanzhaus nrw (tel: (0211) 172 700; website: www.tanzhaus-nrw.de).   

Two other theatre venues that stage a wide range of musical acts are the Capitol Theatre (tel: (0211) 734 4150; website: www.capitol-theater.de) and the Philipshalle (tel: (0211) 899 755; website: www.philipshalle.de). The latter hosts big-name pop and rock acts, though superstars, such as the Rolling Stones, play at the LTU Arena Football Stadium (tel: 01805 644 332; website: www.ltuarena.de).

For a night of traditional German cabaret and circus-style acts (with few language barriers), visit Roncalli's Apollo Varieté (tel: (0211) 8289 090; website: www.apollovariete.de).

The tourist office has information on what's on. For listings geared to English-speaking visitors buy a copy of Rhine Magazine (website: www.rhinemagazine.com).