Built 1755 by Moretti. Named "Kleines Hoftheater" [small court theatre] to distinguish it from the "Großes Opernhaus am Zwinger" (built 1718-1719, converted in to a concert hall in 1772, destroyed by a fire in 1849). Originally built from wood, rebuilt 1761 from stone. After 1772, the "Kleines Hoftheater" became the main venue for opera and theatre performances in Dresden. Demolished 1841 after Semper's first Hoftheater (built 1838-1841, destroyed by a fire in 1869) was opened at another site (directly neighbouring the Kleines Hoftheater) on Theaterplatz.

Notable world premieres:

• Ferdinando Paer: Sargino (26 May 1803)
• Ferdinando Paer: Leonora (3 Oct 1804)