Performing Arts in the Palatinate Region: Ludwigshafen's Annual Festival
The Theater im Pfalzbau in Ludwigshafen is gearing up for an unforgettable season, as Intendant Tilman Gersch prepares to present the Ludwigshafen Festival. With a diverse range of productions, this event promises to become a must-visit for art enthusiasts in Southern Germany.
At the heart of the festival is Tilman Gersch's own production of Shakespeare's 'Measure for Measure'. The play will feature an intriguing twist, as Nina Petri takes on the role of the Duke, traditionally a male character, from a feminist perspective. Around 50 Ludwigshafen citizens and the Beethoven choir will join professional actors on stage, promising a unique and engaging performance.
International artists are also set to grace the stage. The São Paulo Dance Company from Brazil, Israeli choreographer Sharon Eyal, French-Algerian director Hervé Koubi, and many more will bring their distinctive styles to the festival. Sergio Bernal, for instance, will combine flamenco, ballet, and contemporary dance in the spectacle 'SER'.
The Berliner Ensemble's production of 'Mein Name sei Gantenbein' will feature Matthias Brandt in the lead role, while the Schauspiel Hannover offers an idiosyncratic take on Goethe's 'Faust' with different text and melody.
Sasha Waltz and her ensemble will delve into Beethoven's Symphony of Freedom in 'Beethoven 7', and the Berliner Schaubühne will present 'Changes' by young author Maja Zade.
The festival will also feature numerous readings and discussion rounds at the Pfalzbau Theater, providing an opportunity for audience members to delve deeper into the performances and the themes they explore. After the shows, audiences can enjoy several after-show concerts and lounge evenings for exchange.
The Lyon Ballet will interpret 'La belle au bois dormant' under the direction of Marcos Morau in a new way, and the play 'The Little Mermaid - A Fluid Fairytail' will be a sparkling show at the Zurich Schauspielhaus, featuring ensemble members and stars of the Swiss drag scene.
The Burgtheater Vienna will present 'Johann Holtrop' based on the novel by Rainald Goetz, completing the lineup for this year's Ludwigshafen Festival.
Intendant Tilman Gersch hopes that this festival will become an institution that 'the art-interested person in Southern Germany simply cannot miss.' With its array of captivating performances and thought-provoking discussions, it's easy to see why.
