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.

The female quota of at least 50 percent in the position of directors was introduced for the first time in 2019 for the 2020 and 2021 festival editions and has been discussed and agreed afresh for every subsequent assessment year by the respective independent jury. After extensive consultation, the new jury has decided to view and invite productions for the 2027 and 2028 editions of the festival without a female quota. The jury will share their observations and viewing experiences of structural inequalities with the public at the 2027 Theatertreffen.

The 10 Most Remarkable Productions 2026

View from the Upper Foyer of the Haus der Berliner Festspiele onto a blossoming chestnut tree

The ten productions invited to Theatertreffen by a jury of critics provide a condensed insight into the German-language theatre landscape.

To the 10 most remarkable productions

View from the Haus der Berliner Festspiele onto a blossoming chestnut tree

The 2026 Shortlisted Productions

36 productions were proposed and discussed for nomination for the 2026 Theatertreffen by the jury members.

The seven Theatertreffen jury members stand or sit in the balcony of a theatre and look into the camera.

The 2026 Theatertreffen-Jury

Seven theatre critics determine the festival’s 10 most remarkable productions.

Audience in front of the Haus der Berliner Festspiele in brilliant sunshine

The Theatertreffen Database since 1964

The Theatertreffen’s database lists every production, theatre and director invited to the festival since 1964.

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.