Struggling Harmoniously: Innovative Culinary Approach Debuts at Munich Art Exhibition
In the heart of Munich, the Lach- und Schießgesellschaft, a cultural mainstay with a rich history, has undergone a significant transformation. Originally renowned as a political cabaret, the venue has evolved to incorporate a culinary element, reflecting the changing cultural and gastronomic landscape of the city.
The evolution of Lach & Schieß began in April 2024, when the fast-food restaurant Wing Nation opened its doors within the venue. However, the concept proved unsuccessful, and Wing Nation ceased operations by November of the same year.
Following this setback, Christian (28) and Mariana (33) Entleitner, the owners of Wing Nation, have proposed a new concept for Lach & Schieß. They aim to reopen the venue with a focus on regional organic food, marking a shift towards a more culinary-oriented establishment.
André Hartmann, the artistic director of the legendary stage, is skeptical about the financial implications of this gastronomy focus. He points out that such a change could lead to a decrease in seating capacity and potential revenue loss for cabaret performances.
Despite these concerns, Hartmann and the Entleitners agree that commerce and cabaret don't mix well. They are negotiating the terms of the new concept, with the Entleitners seeking a higher percentage per play evening than the current ten.
Ulrich Spandau, responsible for the finances, remains optimistic about the future. He states that no money has flowed from the city this year, but they are doing well. Spandau looks positively to the future, aiming to increase the number of performances from five to 12 to 15 per month by 2026.
Mariana Entleitner expressed concern about the oversupply of fast food in the location, suggesting that their focus on regional organic food could help distinguish Lach & Schieß in the culinary scene.
The Lach- und Schießgesellschaft once served as a flagship political cabaret of the FRG, associated with notable figures like Dieter Hildebrandt and Sammy Drechsel. Its current volunteers, including Hartmann and his team, work tirelessly to keep the venue running, with the subsidy from the cultural department being used for technology, among other things.
As Lach & Schieß navigates this transition, it continues to embody the spirit of its early years—a place for critical discussions, entertainment, and a touch of rebellion. The future plans for the venue remain uncertain, but one thing is clear: Lach & Schieß will continue to adapt and evolve to meet the changing needs of its audience and the city it calls home.
The Entleitners, former owners of Wing Nation, plan to reopen Lach & Schieß with a focus on regional organic food, aiming to create a more culinary-oriented establishment and distinguish it from other fast food venues in the area (lifestyle: food-and-drink). Civil discussions, entertainment, and a touch of rebellion still characterize Lach & Schieß as it navigates this transformation, with the venue continuing to evolve to cater to the changing needs of its audience and city (home-and-garden).
