Ein Kessel Buntes

Ein Kessel Buntes (1972)

EndedVariety show

Ein Kessel Buntes was a television variety show in the former East Germany. It broadcast from 1972 to 1992. A total of 113 shows were made, six per year. As the name implies, it was broadcast in colour, first from the Friedrichstadtpalast theatre, and later from the Palast der Republik, as well as from other prominent music halls in other East German cities. Its title sequence showed a series of famous clocks in East Berlin, such as that on the Rotes Rathaus and the Weltzeituhr at Alexanderplatz displaying the time of broadcast, 8 p.m. (scheduled to clash with the main evening news on ARD) Ein Kessel Buntes was originally hosted by actors Horst Köbbert (who spoke Low German from the north), Lutz Stückrath (a speaker of the Berlin dialect), and Heinz Uhlig (who spoke Saxon from the south), whose satirical commentary during the live broadcasts often criticised the East German government. They were soon replaced by a rotating cast of celebrities.

The show was meant to compete with those on West German television, (which most East Germans were able, and did, watch). To this end it was fairly successful even attracting a following in parts of West Germany which could receive Eastern TV. Its production values were high. Apart from song and dance numbers and appearances from East German celebrities, almost every broadcast featured well-known stars from the west, often after their popularity had peaked in their home countries. After German reunification, and the dissolution of Fernsehen der DDR, the show was broadcast for a further two years on Das Erste. It is still popular in reruns and best-of shows. Numerous international stars were invited to participate: ABBA, Amanda Lear, Bad Boys Blue, Karel Gott, Alla Pugacheva, Sofia Rotaru, and others.

Network
Scheduleevery Saturday at 22:00 (60 min)

Recent Episodes

EpisodeNameAirdate
S01E01paɪlətJul 15, 1972
View all episodesView all seasons

Frequently Asked Questions  Warning: Spoilers

When did 'Ein Kessel Buntes' premiere?

'Ein Kessel Buntes' premiered on January 21, 1972.

What was the format of 'Ein Kessel Buntes'?

'Ein Kessel Buntes' was a variety show featuring musical performances, comedy skits, and other cultural events.

Who were the hosts of 'Ein Kessel Buntes'?

'Ein Kessel Buntes' had multiple hosts throughout its run, including Klaus Peter Daehler, Hans-Joachim Kulenkampff, and Gunther Emmerlich.

How long did 'Ein Kessel Buntes' run for?

'Ein Kessel Buntes' ran for 26 years, from 1972 to 1998.

What was the significance of the title 'Ein Kessel Buntes'?

The title 'Ein Kessel Buntes' roughly translates to "a potpourri" or "a mishmash", which accurately describes the show's format of various cultural performances.

Did 'Ein Kessel Buntes' feature international acts?

Yes, 'Ein Kessel Buntes' often featured musical acts from other countries, including the Soviet Union, Poland, and Czechoslovakia.

Was 'Ein Kessel Buntes' a popular show?

Yes, 'Ein Kessel Buntes' was very popular in East Germany and often had high ratings.

Did 'Ein Kessel Buntes' face any controversy?

Yes, 'Ein Kessel Buntes' faced some controversy for its alleged promotion of state propaganda and censorship of certain performers.

Who were some notable musical acts that appeared on 'Ein Kessel Buntes'?

Notable musical acts that appeared on 'Ein Kessel Buntes' include City, Karat, and Silly, all popular East German rock bands.

Did 'Ein Kessel Buntes' ever feature dance performances?

Yes, 'Ein Kessel Buntes' often featured ballet and modern dance performances.

Also known as

  • A Kettle of Colour

Recently Updated Shows

Recently updated shows that might be of your interest.
NCIS
Running

NCIS

NCIS (Naval Criminal Investigative Service) is more than just an action drama. With liberal doses of humor, it's a show that focuses on the sometimes complex and always amusing dynamics of a team forced to work together in high-stress situations. Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a former Marine gunnery sergeant, whose skills as an investigator are unmatched, leads this troupe of colorful personalities. Rounding out the team are Anthony DiNozzo, an ex-homicide detective whose instincts in the field are unparalleled and whose quick wit and humorous take on life make him a team favorite; the youthful and energetic forensic specialist Abby Sciuto, a talented scientist whose sharp mind matches her Goth style and eclectic tastes; Caitlin Todd, an ex-Secret Service Agent; and Timothy McGee, an MIT graduate whose brilliance with computers far overshadows his insecurities in the field; Assisting the team is medical examiner Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard, who knows it all because he's seen it all, and he's not afraid to let you know. From murder and espionage to terrorism and stolen submarines, these special agents travel the globe to investigate all crimes with Navy or Marine Corps ties.

American Pickers
Running

American Pickers

This isn't your grandmother's antiquing. The American Pickers are on a mission to recycle America, even if it means diving into countless piles of grimy junk or getting chased off a gun-wielding homeowner's land. Hitting back roads from coast to coast, the Pickers earn a living by restoring forgotten relics to their former glory, transforming one person's trash into another's treasure. The show follows the team as they scour the country for hidden gems in junkyards, basements, garages and barns, meeting quirky characters and hearing their amazing stories. If you think the antique business is all about upscale boutiques and buttoned-up dealers, this show may change your mind – and teach you a thing or two about American history along the way.

Law & Order
Running

Law & Order

In the criminal justice system, the people are represented by two separate, yet equally important, groups: the police, who investigate crime; and the district attorneys, who prosecute the offenders. These are their stories.

Futurama
Running

Futurama

Futurama follows pizza guy Philip J. Fry, who reawakens in 31st century New New York after a cryonics lab accident. Now part of the Planet Express delivery crew, Fry travels to the farthest reaches of the universe with his robot buddy Bender and cyclopsian love interest Leela, discovering freaky mutants, intergalactic conspiracies and other strange stuff.

Pawn Stars
Running

Pawn Stars

Long before banks, ATMS and check-cashing services, there were pawn shops. Pawning was the leading form of consumer credit in the United States until the 1950s, and pawn shops are still helping everyday people make ends meet. Pawn Stars takes you inside the colorful world of the pawn business. At the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop on the outskirts of Las Vegas, three generations of the Harrison family - grandfather Richard, son Rick and grandson Corey - jointly run the family business, and there's clashing and camaraderie every step of the way. The three men use their sharp eyes and skills to assess the value of items from the commonplace to the truly historic, including a 16th-century samurai sword, a Super Bowl ring, a Picasso painting and a 17th-century stay of execution. It's up to them to determine what's real and what's fake, as they reveal the often surprising answer to the questions on everyone's mind, "What's the story behind it?" and "What's it worth?"