German Society of Winnipeg
121 Charles St., west of Main.
Visited Sunday, 8:30 p.m.
 VENUE: Seats 320 with a balcony level. Air-conditioned.
FOOD: The beer tent outside is the place for a snack, offering bratwurst (pork sausage) on a bun for $4 ($4.50 with sauerkraut) or soft pretzels for $1. In the theatre, enjoy plates of schnitzel (breaded pork), rindergulasch (beef goulash) or bratwurst, with sides of potato salad, egg noodles or sauerkraut, for between $6 and $8. Rich desserts, including strudel and tortes, sell for between $2.50 and $3.25.
DISPLAYS: An eager, traditionally costumed volunteer explains and shows off a big collection of beer steins. A souvenir market nearby, including traditional clothing and food, complements the display.
SHOW: There are stairs to climb, but once you find the stage, the German Society Choir and Brass Band and the Heidschnuken Dancers warm up the crowd before a guest troupe from Germany takes over the floor -- the Volkstanzgruppe Süssen, from the city of Süssen in Germany's Baden Wurttemberg region.
CULTURAL HIGH POINT: The Volkstanzgruppe Süssen make their first North American appearance at this pavilion. Sit close enough, and you can feel a breeze from their quick, intricate movements.
LOST IN TRANSLATION: The cultural display may leave visitors with the impression that people of the Baden Wurttemberg region do nothing but drink beer.
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