Under Construction

In creative processes, we often consider alternative realities and models for the future. And now we are actually facing such an alternative: An equitable, multi-lingual, female team of directors is developing a new texture for the coming editions of Theatertreffen. In 2023, the ten remarkable productions from the German-language region which have been selected by the jury will be presented as usual. A the same time, ten varied, trans-disciplinary formats for encounters, will accentuate the aspect of “Treffen”, i.e. meeting, while a series of events will be conceived to create a clear resonance chamber for the festival with its rich tradition. Already existing formats like the International Forum, the Theatertreffen-Blog or the TT Context programme may be incorporated in this concept just like a series of new events which – all of them based on the various qualities of a ‘meeting’ – will be developed over the coming weeks and months.

Communicating and working in our team is already a kind of meeting in itself, where different cultures, languages, preferences and contexts come together and where we are trying to reach a consensual agreement about how we can enable safe meetings on the uncertain topics facing Europe. In doing this, we accept that the state of being “under construction” is permanent. This may appear unsettling and uncertain at times, but at the same time it can be lively, performative and transitive.

One change will concern the Stückemarkt, which will not be continued but will receive retrospectively a special tribute at this year’s 60th anniversary of the festival.

This year’s Theatertreffen will take place between 10 and 28 May 2023. The selection of ten remarkable productions as well as further details on the coming festival edition will be announced at a press conference on 26 January 2023.