Fire Damages Bonn Opera House

A fire broke out in Bonn's opera house Monday, causing significant damages without injuring anyone. The fire started in the attic and is thought to have been caused by welding work that eventually set the building's façade alight. Firefighters were able to put out the blaze within two hours. Fire department spokesman Albert Lehmann estimated the value of the damage --which included smoke and water damage to the stag area -- at €250,000 ($305,000), according to the Associated Press. It is uncertain whether the opera house will be able to open in mid-Sept. for the next season of performances.