"Revitalizing the Alternative for Germany (AfD)"

New Leadership at the German National Theatre Weimar Aims to Foster Dialogue and Improve Structures

The German National Theatre Weimar is undergoing a significant change, with a new leadership team taking the helm from September. The three-headed team, consisting of Valentin Schwarz, Dorian Dreher, and Timon Jansen, has opted for a novel team Intendancy model.

Valentin Schwarz, the new Intendant, aims to create a space for exchange that is open to all people but does not tolerate racist hate speech or societal division. Schwarz has stated that the theatre should not simply reproduce the prevailing mood but should take a stance, advocating for an open, liberal democratic order and basic constitution.

The political climate in Thuringia, where Björn Höcke's AfD is successful and fostering a populist sentiment, presents unique challenges for the National Theatre. However, Schwarz's goal is to reach out to people who are ready for dialogue and open to different opinions.

One of the key areas that the new Intendancy team plans to focus on is the review and improvement of the structures behind the stage. They seek to foster an open feedback and error culture, with a change mindset that balances process and product quality.

In addition to this, the open space, the "counterplay," and the festival "Equinoctium" with young European productions will expand the repertoire at the German National Theatre Weimar. These initiatives aim to encourage artistic development and innovation within the theatre.

Schwarz's "Ring" cycle will be performed for the last time this summer at the Bayreuth Festival. He has learned from the criticism of his Bayreuth "Ring" production that it is important to actively initiate and utilize a reflection process. This lesson will no doubt be applied in his new role at the German National Theatre Weimar.

The German National Theatre Weimar is situated in a city that reflects the contradictions of German history and culture, with references to both the Weimar Classic and Buchenwald. The theatre's rich history and cultural significance make it a unique and challenging institution to lead.

A funding agreement secures the funds for the German National Theatre Weimar until 2030, and 167 million euros from the federal and state governments are secured for the general renovation of the National Theatre. This financial support will enable the theatre to continue its important work and maintain its status as a cultural hub in Germany.

The other board member of the Intendanz at the National Theatre Weimar alongside Valentin Schwarz and Dorian Dreher is Andreas Gergen. The new Intendancy team's concept aims to rethink the city theatre and overcome the vulnerabilities of the old patriarchal city theatre system in terms of leadership and artistic development.

One notable change that will take place under the new leadership is the removal of the poster with the inscription "Diplomacy! Now! Peace." that was attached to the facade of the German National Theatre Weimar by Intendant Hasko Weber after Russia's expanded attack on Ukraine. This decision reflects the new team's commitment to taking a stance and advocating for peace and unity.

Overall, the new Intendancy team at the German National Theatre Weimar is aiming for a fresh start, with a focus on open dialogue, artistic innovation, and improvement of the theatre's structures. The challenges ahead are significant, but the team is determined to make a positive impact on the cultural landscape of Weimar and beyond.