Theater Legend Klaus Zehelein Rewarded for Lifetime Achievement
Renowned opera director Klaus Zehelein (83) was honored with the German Theater Award 'Der Faust 2023' for his exceptional journey in the world of musical theater. The prestigious award ceremony held at the Thalia Theater in Hamburg saw Russian director Kirill Serebrennikov laud the maestro's courage in reshaping the arena of musical theater and revolutionizing it.
The German Theater Award is given annually to exceptional artists who contribute to the diversity of the German theater landscape. From 1991-2006, Zehelein served as the Opera Director at the Stuttgart State Opera, followed by his tenure as President of the Bavarian Theater Academy Aug. Everding at the Prinzregententheater in Munich. His journey as a theater professional also included teaching at the University of Oldenburg and stints as chief dramaturge and opera director at Frankfurt am Main's opera house, amongst others.
Senator Carsten Brosda, who also presides over Hamburg's Cultural Department, echoed the sentiment at the award ceremony. He highlighted the role of theater in providing us an alternate world, a play with reality that offers inspiration and, at times, irritation, emphasizing its importance, especially as the world faces unprecedented challenges.
This year, the Faust Award was given in twelve categories, with Ligia Lewis winning in the 'Actor:in Dance' category for her performance in "A Plot/A Scandal" at the Ruhrtriennale. Vera-Lotte Boecker took home the award for 'Actor:in Music Theater' in Munich while Wicki Bernhardt and Janna Pinsker won in the 'Actor:in Theater for Young Audiences' category for their performance in "Family Creatures" at Frankfurt's Mousonturm.
The Faust Award went to David Hermann in the 'Staging Musical Theater' category for "Dogville" at Aalto Musiktheater Essen, among other winners. The German Theater Prize is presented jointly by the German Stage Association, the German Academy of Performing Arts, and the Cultural Foundation of the Federal States.
Klaus Zehelein's illustrious career in theater stems from his innovative productions, unconventional approaches, widespread collaborations, and commitment to nurturing young artists. His influence on German theater culture, coupled with a string of awards, culminated in the prestigious Faust Award for a lifetime of achievement in the field of musical theater.
