The Europahaus and Stratmann’s Theatre, formerly known as Amerikahaus, is situated in the city centre right on Kennedy square. Opened in 1952 as first American cultural institution in Germany it was originally fitted with a library, a cinema and convention room and exhibition spaces. Its façade has been decorated with figural depictions.

During the building of the new city council in the 1960s and 70s the brick building served as office for the lord mayor and the chief municipal director.

After a renovation in the 1990s cabaret artist Dr. Stratmann and his Stratmann’s Theatre moved into the Europahaus. The doctor himself frequently performed his humorous medical cabaret programme here for 25 years. Apart from him basically all major names in German comedy and cabaret have appeared on this stage over the last decades. Also very popular is the on-site restaurant, during the summer months one can sit outside.