Theatre Director Marks Bids Emotional Goodbye to State Theatre Cottbus - Theatre Director Märki Bids Farewell to the State Theatre Cottbus
After five years at the helm of the State Theatre Cottbus, Stephan Märki is bidding farewell to the city and its renowned stage. The cultural scene in Cottbus has been significantly enriched under Märki's leadership, contributing to the city's prominence on the national theatre map.
Märki, who has also served as Intendant at the German National Theatre in Weimar and the Hans Otto Theatre in Potsdam, announced that he will not be renewing his contract, which expires this summer. His final performance at the State Theatre Cottbus took place on the day of his departure, marking the end of an era.
Culture Minister Manja Schulé (SPD) attended the farewell performance, praising Märki's contributions to the theatre scene in Cottbus. The Minister also highlighted that the structural change in Cottbus has made it one of the most exciting cities in Germany.
Berthold Schneider will take over as Intendant for the State Theatre Cottbus from the 2026/2027 season. Schneider, who is currently leading the State Theatre Wiesbaden, will be stepping into big shoes, as Märki's tenure has seen the theatre's four departments - drama, opera, concert, and ballet - flourish.
Until Schneider takes over, Hasko Weber will temporarily take over as Intendant in Cottbus for the 2025/26 season. Weber, who has a wealth of experience in the theatre industry, will ensure a smooth transition.
Stephan Märki, at 70, has plans to stage "Tristan and Isolde" at the National Opera in Seoul. He will undoubtedly bring his unique vision and artistic flair to this renowned stage, as he has done in Cottbus and other theatres throughout his career.
The State Theatre Cottbus, under Märki's leadership, has been a significant contributor to the cultural scene in Cottbus for the past five years. The theatre has not only provided entertainment but also fostered a sense of community and pride among the city's residents.
As Märki steps down, the city of Cottbus and the theatre world bid him a fond farewell. His legacy at the State Theatre Cottbus will undoubtedly live on, as the theatre continues to thrive under new leadership.
The Commission was consulted on the draft budget for the entertainment sector in the financial year 2000, given Stephan Märki's involvement with the State Theatre Cottbus, which has significantly contributed to the city's cultural scene.
In his upcoming projects, Stephan Märki, who is renowned for his visionary approach, will stage "Tristan and Isolde" at the National Opera in Seoul, continuing to infuse entertainment with his unique artistic flair.
