democratic boot camp

Working in a performance collective has much in common to living in a democracy. In both environments, participants must navigate contradictory interests and ensure collaboration despite differences that might appear insurmountable. In so-called “inclusive theatre groups”, one not only finds a broad spectrum of aesthetic preferences, but also a gamut of ways to speak, think and perceive. Such groups have become experts in presenting a wide variety of interests. Independent performance collectives are more homogenous in comparison, but often work together for a longer period of time and are thus experts in perseverance. The “democratic boot camp” aims to tap the expertise of these collectives with regard to successful collaboration and apply it to current issues of coexistence in an increasingly diversified society”.

After a phase of exchange between the collectives, two teams – one from an inclusive group and the other, an independent group – will develop material for a “performative gameshow”. From re-enacting disputes at their collectives to organising wagers with the studio audience – anything is possible. The gameshow will be supplemented by an accompanying programme consisting of discussions, workshops and input from international experts on collective collaboration. Instead of traditional conferences, the performative training camp will promote the exchange of information through experimental formats. These will be less language-oriented so that many participants can engage in inspiring exchange – analogous to an equitable artistic dialogue in the gameshow.

Artistic directors: Jutta Schubert, Lis Marie Diehl
Assistant dramaturge: Nele Jahnke
Participating artists: Doris Dean, i can be your translator, Meine Damen und Herren, Melanie Hinz / Frl. Wunder AG, Sasa Asentic (Per Art / Tanzerei), She She Pop, SKART, Theater Hora, Turbo Pascal

Performances: Kampnagel Internationale Kulturfabrik, Hamburg: 1 – 3 Dec. 2022; Münchner Kammerspiele, Munich: 1 – 2 Mar. 2023