Berlin’s most multi-kulti borough, Neukölln, has always been home to squatters and artists, as it lies on the former border of East and West Berlin. Plus, it’s the only Berlin neighborhood that can boast that its name appears on a David Bowie album (1977’s “Heroes”). Perhaps less gritty now than ever, Neukölln is experiencing a bit of a cultural renaissance, due to the cheap rents and numerous industrial buildings available for use by artists and musicians.

Saalbau Neukölln, part of the borough’s cultural affairs office, has been both booster and beneficiary of this urban renewal. The roomy Neo-Baroque theater and neighboring gallery provide ample space for exhibitions, concerts, theater and dance performances, ensure that there is always something interesting afoot “south of the border.”