The Culture Mill Parchim is more than just a building – it is a true beacon of culture. Located on a picturesque branch of the Elde River, the former grain mill has been home to the Young State Theatre Parchim – and thus to the Mecklenburg State Theatre – since May 2023. It offers an exciting theatre program especially tailored for children and young people.

The Young State Theatre Parchim looks back on a turbulent history. It was founded in 1945 by order of the Soviet city command under the name "Bunte Bühne Parchim" (“Colorful Stage Parchim”) – originally located in a former hotel on Blutstraße. Acting legends such as Walfriede Schmitt, Horst Krause, Leander Haußmann, and Renate Krößner had their early performances here. After 78 years, regular performances in the main hall on Blutstraße were discontinued in 2014 due to fire safety and occupational safety concerns. From then until 2023, the Young State Theatre mainly performed in the paint shop (Malsaal) and on tour throughout Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

The purchase of the Elde Mill by the district marked the beginning of a solution: together with the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and the city of Parchim, the former mill was transformed into the Culture Mill. The listed part of the 19th-century building was carefully preserved, while a modern extension was added, providing a generous theatre space of 4,000 square meters.
The stage is designed to accommodate productions from Schwerin’s M*Halle as well. In addition to the theatre, the Culture Mill also houses the city museum, the tourist information center, and dining options – creating a well-rounded cultural experience for all visitors.

One special feature sets the Culture Mill apart: all workshops, storage rooms, offices, and rehearsal stages are located under one roof. A true gem for the city.
The Young State Theatre Parchim has been led by Artistic Director Thomas Ott-Albrecht since 2003.