The 2026 Shortlisted Productions
© Berliner Festspiele, photo: Fabian Schellhorn
About the 10 Productions
Each year, the 10 most remarkable productions are selected by a jury of critics from more than 700 shows within the German-language region and the viewing period. Unsolicited applications are not possible since the jury independently decides which productions they will view and possibly nominate for an invitation to Theatertreffen.
Each May, the selected productions are presented at Haus der Berliner Festspiele and other venues throughout the city. They are accompanied by audience talks.
Ever since the Theatertreffen’s foundation – when it was still known as “Berliner Theaterwettbewerb” (Berlin Theatre Competition) – these ten productions have been the festival’s core. An invitation to the Theatertreffen brings national recognition to the respective production teams.
With its 2020 festival edition, the Theatertreffen introduced a female quota of at least 50 percent in the position of directors for the 10 most remarkable productions. This rule will initially be observed up to and including the year 2026.
The 10 Most Remarkable Productions 2026
© Berliner Festspiele, photo: Fabian Schellhorn
The ten productions invited to Theatertreffen provide a condensed insight into the German-language theatre landscape. On 13 January, the Theatertreffen’s jury of critics announced their selection of the 10 most remarkable productions for the 2026 Theatertreffen at a press conference.
Selection Period for the 2026 Theatertreffen
Productions that premiered between 17 January and 31 December 2025 were eligible for consideration by the jury for the 2026 Theatertreffen.
Selection Period for the 2027 Theatertreffen
Productions that premiere between 1 January and 31 December 2026 are eligible for consideration by the jury for the 2027 Theatertreffen.
Rules of Procedure
The conditions of the selection of the ten most remarkable productions to be invited are regulated by the rules of procedure.