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"Revitalizing the Alternative for Germany (AfD)"

Discussion on theatre renovation plans by Valentin Schwarz, the future director of German Theatre Weimar, focusing on city theatre configurations, the influential role of the stage in politics, and the fusion of art and society.

"Revitalizing the AfD"
"Revitalizing the AfD"

"Revitalizing the Alternative for Germany (AfD)"

New Leadership at the German National Theatre Weimar: A Fresh Approach to Theatre

The German National Theatre Weimar is set to enter a new phase with a three-headed leadership team, effective from September. The new directorship consists of Valentin Schwarz, Dorian Dreher, and Timon Jansen, who bring diverse experiences to the table.

Valentin Schwarz, one of the new leaders, aims to create an open space for exchange at the theatre that is accessible to all people. However, he is firm in his stance against racist incitement and social division. Schwarz emphasizes the importance of handling public funds carefully and cooperating with other theatres in the Thuringian region, considering the fortunate preconditions and the responsibility that comes with the role.

Schwarz, known for his work on the Bayreuth Festival, has stated that the theatre should not simply reproduce the prevailing mood but should take a stance and support an open, liberal democratic order and basic constitution. He has learned from the criticism of his Bayreuth "Ring" production that it is important to actively initiate and utilize a reflection process.

Timon Jansen, another member of the new leadership team, previously worked at the Burgtheater in Vienna. The third member, Dorian Dreher, is yet to have a clear public profile.

The new directorship team seeks a "change mindset" that balances process and product quality in the theatre. They aim to foster an open feedback and error culture and are attempting to rethink the city theatre and overcome the vulnerabilities of the old patriarchal city theatre system in terms of leadership and artistic development.

The political situation in Thuringia, where the AfD party is successful, poses unique challenges for the German National Theatre Weimar. The team is committed to maintaining a space that is open to all people, regardless of political affiliations.

The funding agreement secures the funds for the German National Theatre Weimar until 2030, with 167 million euros from the federal and state governments secured for the general renovation of the National Theatre. The open space, the "counterpoint", and the festival "Equinoctium" with young European productions will expand the repertoire at the German National Theatre Weimar.

Notably, the poster with the inscription "Diplomacy! Now! Peace." attached to the facade of the German National Theatre Weimar by Intendant Hasko Weber will be removed by the new directorship. The new leadership team opts for a novel team directorship model, aiming to facilitate a lot of negotiation, dialogue, and contradiction in the decision-making process.

The city of Weimar, with its association with Weimar Classicism and Buchenwald, reflects the contradictions of German history and culture. The new leadership team is hopeful that their approach will contribute to a more inclusive and open theatre culture in the city.

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