Published 3 December 2024

Wo stehen wir?
Statement und Reflexionen zu den drohenden Kürzungen im Berliner Kulturhaushalt

 In diesem Moment, in dem ich versuche, einige Gedanken über das Wesen, die Sinnhaftigkeit und Bedeutsamkeit unserer Tätigkeiten im Bereich des Tanzes zu Papier zu bringen, läuft im Deutschlandfunk ein Interview zum Wahlkampf. Es ist die Rede davon, dass nicht nur die Höherverdienenden den entscheidenden Wirtschaftsfaktor darstellen, sondern es auch auf andere Einkommensgruppen ankomme. Davon, dass soziale Themen im Vordergrund stehen. Dass Pflegekräfte, Erzieher*innen, Lehrer*innen besser verdienen müssen und gebraucht sind, um wirtschaftliche Stärke wiederzuerlangen. Es geht um die Sicherheit nach Außen. Und (!) es geht um gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt!

Wo aber, und diese Frage stelle ich mir als Choreografin, steht hier die Kultur, und darin eingeschlossen, der Tanz?

Kein Wort, kein Aspekt, kein Nebensatz, wenn es um den Erhalt der vielen Arbeitskräfte in diesem Bereich geht. Wie kann das sein? Ich vermisse die Wertschätzung, ja, ein Bewusstsein für das Wesen und die Bedeutung unserer Arbeit. Dafür, dass (vielleicht gerade) unsere Arbeitsplätze nicht nur aus sozialen Aspekten schützenswert sind. Dafür, dass unsere Arbeit in, durch und als Bewegung GRUNDLEGEND für soziales Miteinander, für Solidarität, für Demokratie und Vielfalt – für gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt – ist.

Warum begegnet man uns mit solcher Ignoranz? Wie kann es sein, dass weder der wirtschaftliche noch der soziale Einfluss, den Kultur auf das Gesamtgebilde Berlin hat – sei es durch Tourist*innen oder Künstler*innen, die aus aller Welt in diese Stadt kommen, gerade wegen ihrer kulturellen Vielfalt – dieser Tage so wenig gesehen werden?

Ganz besonders zeigt sich mir diese Ignoranz in Form von Zahlen. Die ohnehin schon fragilen Strukturen der Berliner Kulturszene werden durch die angekündigten Sparmaßnahmen allein im kommenden Jahr massiv weiter geschwächt: Erschütternde Kürzungen in historischer Höhe von 13 % im Kulturbereich treffen dabei “eine Sparte wie den Tanz, dem ohnehin die Strukturen fehlen und der mit dem Runden Tisch Tanz 2018 einen nachhaltigen Entwicklungsplan aufgestellt hatte, um diese Fehlstellen zu füllen, […] in besonderem Maße. Die Perspektive […] einer langfristig substanziellen Stärkung […] scheint ad acta gelegt.“ (Statement Netzwerk TanzRaumBerlin, 20.11.2024[1])

Im letzten Herbst hat Kultursenator Joe Chialo in Gesprächen bekräftigt, dass Tanz auf der Agenda 2024 stehen solle. Bei der Demonstration des Bündnisses #BerlinIstKultur am 13.11.2024 am Brandenburger Tor bot er der Kulturszene weiterhin seine Unterstützung an, indem er für sie kämpfen werde. Aber so absurd es auch erscheinen mag, das Gegenteil passiert: Es werden keine neuen Maßnahmen zur Stärkung geschaffen, sondern vielmehr werden die bestehenden abgeschafft.  Und es ist wie in einem dystopischen Albtraum, zu sehen, dass eine tragende Säule wie das Tanzbüro Berlin, das seit 20 Jahren einen grundlegenden Bezugspunkt für die gesamte Tanzszene (insbesondere die freie Szene) darstellt, auf der schwarzen Liste der Institutionen steht, die ohne Vorwarnung ab Januar abgewickelt werden sollen!

Dasselbe Schicksal trifft viele Projekte und Organisationen, die aktiv sind und Pionierarbeit geleistet haben in den z.T, längst überfälligen Bereichen Diversität, Inklusion, Teilhabe und kulturelle Bildung, wie etwa Diversity Arts Culture und Berlin Mondiale.
Statt diese Themen weiter voranzutreiben, die Menschen und Institutionen in ihrer Arbeit zu bestärken und anzuerkennen, wird hier „nicht nur Diversität von der Berliner Verwaltung mit dem sprichwörtlichen Rasenmäher plattgemacht, sondern auch eine konservative Kulturpolitik vorangetrieben, die scheinbar eine plurale Gesellschaft ablehnt“[2]. Und das macht Angst.

Warum? – hypothetische Gedanken

Es ist ein Problem aufgetaucht, und dieses Problem kreist um die Fragen der Artikulation, die von uns Tanzschaffenden seit langem akribisch betrieben wird. Und dennoch bleibt hier scheinbar eine Lücke. Es geht um die Artikulation einer fragilen Arbeit, die auf Erfahrung und Erkenntnissen beruht, und die – scheinbar – schwer vermittelbar ist für Menschen, die diese Erfahrungen vielleicht zwar schon gemacht, ihrem Wert und ihrer Bedeutung aber keine Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt haben, weil sie sich dessen nicht bewusst sind.

Und es ist eben diese Aufmerksamkeit, diese Achtung des Mensch-Seins, des Menschlich-Seins, die unsere Arbeit ausmacht, sei es die somatische Tanzpraxis, die holistische Herangehensweise in der Körperarbeit, sei es die heilende ‘Dienstleistung’, die in einer Cranio-sacral oder Shiatsubehandlung erbracht wird, sei es ein kontinuierliches Training in zeitgenössischem Tanz, in Urban Dance oder Aikido, sei es die Entwicklung von Tanzstücken für Kinder und Jugendlichen oder von Performances, die von Menschen mit Behinderung kreiert werden – so berührend wie ich es neulich beim No-Limit Festival in einer Performance von Claire Cunningham bezeugen konnte – bei der die Unmittelbarkeit in der Erfahrung von Emotionen, politischen Inhalten und ja: Schwingungen! im Theaterraum eine so große Verbindung zwischen allen anwesenden Menschen hergestellt hat, dass man die Hypothese aufstellen könnte, dass hier Sinn und Sinnhaftigkeit unseres Zusammen-Seins beginnt und einen Gegenpol zu (Wahl-)Kampf, Ausgrenzung und Angst entsteht.

Wenn hier im Anschluss Reden gehalten werden, geht es um menschliche Werte, um ein Bewusstsein für (Gleich)Wertigkeit, Empathie und sie beinhalten starkes politisches Engagement, das tief in der täglichen Praxis verankert ist: Change happens quickly – but healing takes time!!!

Was ist das, das wir im sogenannten „Kleinen“ machen, diese tägliche Praxis, die einen Geist des Ungeborenen fördert, entgegen eines streitenden Geistes, entgegen einer Gesinnung der Angst und des Vergleich(en)s?

In unserer Arbeit geht es gerade darum, das Unbeschreibbare erfahrbar zu machen, um die Unmittelbarkeit im sich selbst spüren – und das ist keine zweifelhafte Esoterik, sondern ganz real ein Zustand, in dem wir den teilhabenden Menschen erlauben, das Gedankenkreisen zu unterbrechen, um ganz und voll bei sich selbst und im Spüren anzukommen. Um von dort aus die Welt als etwas, das sich in der eigenen Wahrnehmung widerspiegelt zu erfassen – als etwas, das einerseits vollkommen sein kein, wie auch das Leben selbst – andererseits als etwas, das alle Realitäten und von uns Menschen gemachten Schwierigkeiten, alle Krisen und Herausforderungen mit sich bringt.

Um diesen Herausforderungen begegnen zu können – ohne dass wir (Mit-)einander vergessen – braucht es uns. Miteinander bzw. gemeinsam ist ein Wort, das in vielen Sätzen politischer Entscheidungsträger*innen Einzug findet, aber de facto braucht es mehr für ein wirkliches Miteinander, mehr als nur Worte. Es braucht die Arbeit im täglichen Training, im „Kleinen“, um das Große mitzubestimmen. Es braucht ein Bewusstsein dafür, dass jede echte Begegnung zählt, dass sie bedeutsam ist und das Ganze mitbestimmt. Es braucht Kontinuität darin, Pertinenz. Und nur das bedeutet Resilienz.

Als kleines Fallbeispiel möchte ich nur kurz und knapp umreißen, was das im Einzelfall bedeuten kann. Mit einem unglaublich tollen Team an Tänzer-/Künstler*innen bin ich trotz vierjähriger Konzeptförderung gezwungen, für meine Gruppenstücke in kleinen Teilgrüppchen zu arbeiten, solange, bis ich schließlich die letzten beiden Wochen vor der Premiere mit allen zusammen proben kann, um dann im Theater vor vollem Haus vier Mal zu spielen. Wenn die Mindesthonorare eingehalten werden sollen, reicht das zur Verfügung gestellte Budget nicht aus, um einen gemeinsamen Prozess zu durchlaufen. Wir müssen Opfer bringen, flexibel sein, Konditionen akzeptieren, die allen Beteiligten Ungeheures abverlangt (kurz: einem neo-liberalen Leistungssystem entsprechen, das uns auf Dauer kaputt macht). Ich habe mit dem Team der Tänzer*innen ein mobiles Ensemble gegründet. Wir haben uns für das Arbeitsstipendium Tanzpraxis als ein Ensemble beworben. Der Antrag wurde bewilligt, und nun gibt es für uns mehr Kontinuität – ja, das ist wunderbar. Aber Vorsicht: es gibt 1.000€ pro Person insgesamt verteilt auf 18 Monate.

Vielleicht kann diese Situation, die beispielhaft für viele andere in Berlin steht, veranschaulichen, dass hier nichts ist, dass man kürzen kann. Hier gibt es kein Übermaß, keine Verschwendung, keinen Reichtum. Trotz Exzellenz gibt es Existenznöte und Prekarität. Hier zu kürzen bedeutet Ignoranz und Missachtung unserer Arbeit, der Verhältnisse, in denen wir sie verrichten und nicht zuletzt der Menschen und Biografien dahinter!

Und es gilt zu berücksichtigen: Es sind nicht die großen tagespolitischen Themen, die mehr oder weniger plakativ bzw. repräsentativ abgearbeitet werden müssen, sondern es geht um das Insistieren in einer Praxis des täglichen Tuns, die Zusammengehörigkeit und Zu-/Los-/Einlassen ermöglicht, einer Praxis, in der mankind (Menschheit) wieder kind man (freundliche Menschen) werden kann – als Voraussetzung für einen echten gesellschaftlichen Zusammenhalt – der mehr darstellt als ein Schild vor der Tür.

Und deshalb fordern wir, dass unsere Arbeit, dass jahrelang aufgebaute Strukturen anerkannt, gewürdigt und mit allen zur Verfügung stehenden Mitteln gerettet werden.

Wir fordern eine transparente, demokratische Entscheidungsfindung mit Kulturverwaltung und Kulturschaffenden an einem Tisch.

Wir fordern langfristige Planungsmöglichkeiten. Wir fordern Sicherheit. Und Sicherheit kann es nur geben in einem solidarischen, verantwortungsvollen, Demokratie erhaltenden Miteinander.

Isabelle Schad, Berlin, den 03.12.2024

[1] tanzraumberlin.de/strukturelle demontage der berliner kunst und kulturlandschaft

[2] Instagram Post HAU Hebbel am Ufer vom 22.11.2024

Published 1 November 2024

The next premiere is approaching: “Mirroring”, a choreographic portrait for Josephine Findeisen will be shown at HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3) in Berlin from 7 – 10 November.

We hope to see you there!

Photo: Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

“Mirroring” is an encounter with dancer and choreographer Josephine Findeisen, including her physical qualities, energy, and voice, which become the delicate traces of a detailed, sensual, and poetic drawing. Her movement research on hands and arms meets Isabelle Schad’s ongoing choreographic practice around the universal power of the hands, the principles of shifting the centre of gravity and aikido. In “Mirroring”, Findeisen lifts, drags, and spins metal plates: heavy materials become her instrument, her clothing, or even an extension of her body. Hybrid relationships connecting weight and sound, labour and sensuality, voice and echo gradually unfold in a reflective space.

Premiere: 7.11.2024, 7 p.m.
Further performances: 8.11 + 9.11 (19 Uhr / 7p.m.) + 10.11.2024 (17 Uhr / 5p.m.)

Venue: HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3), Tempelhofer Ufer 10, 10963 Berlin

Info / Tickets: hebbel-am-ufer.de

Team
Concept, Choreography: Isabelle Schad / Creation, Performance: Josephine Findeisen (Dance, Co-coreography, voice), Raoul Lesage (Sound&amp / live Composition) / Light design: Fabian Bleisch /Costume: Charlotte Pistorius / Set design: Umberto Freddi, Isabelle Schad / Voice training: Ignacio Joaquin / Social Media: Rike Nölting / PR, outreach: Elena Basteri / Production management: Heiko Schramm

Production: Isabelle Schad. Co-production: HAU Hebbel am Ufer, PACT Zollverein. Funded by: Berlin Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion. Supported by: NATIONALES PERFORMANCE NETZ Coproduction Fund for Dance, which is funded by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media.

Published 14 October, 2024

On 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. we invite you in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg to a special edition of Open Practice Session which offers a physical introduction to “Mirroring”, my new work that is going to premiere at HAU3 on November 7.

Together with dancer and co-creator Josephine Findeisen will share movement and breathing practices that are at the centre of “Mirroring”.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you are invited to take part in a short warm-up that playfully incorporates principles from Qi Gong and Aikido in order to feel the relationship to oneself in relation to one’s partner and the group. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the stage setting with the musician Raoul Lesage: a reflective space that acoustically resonates with your own movements.

We look forward to your registrations at: ten.d1733741274ahcs-1733741274elleb1733741274asi@o1733741274fni1733741274

WHERE: Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, Wiesenstrasse 55 / 13357 Berlin – Wedding

WHEN: 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 am

HOW TO GET THERE: S-Bahn Humboldthain / U8 Pankstrasse / Bus M27

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Pic. by Benjamin Busch, all rights reserved

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 1 November 2024

The next premiere is approaching: “Mirroring”, a choreographic portrait for Josephine Findeisen will be shown at HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3) in Berlin from 7 – 10 November.

We hope to see you there!

Photo: Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

“Mirroring” is an encounter with dancer and choreographer Josephine Findeisen, including her physical qualities, energy, and voice, which become the delicate traces of a detailed, sensual, and poetic drawing. Her movement research on hands and arms meets Isabelle Schad’s ongoing choreographic practice around the universal power of the hands, the principles of shifting the centre of gravity and aikido. In “Mirroring”, Findeisen lifts, drags, and spins metal plates: heavy materials become her instrument, her clothing, or even an extension of her body. Hybrid relationships connecting weight and sound, labour and sensuality, voice and echo gradually unfold in a reflective space.

Premiere: 7.11.2024, 7 p.m.
Further performances: 8.11 + 9.11 (19 Uhr / 7p.m.) + 10.11.2024 (17 Uhr / 5p.m.)

Venue: HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3), Tempelhofer Ufer 10, 10963 Berlin

Info / Tickets: hebbel-am-ufer.de

Team
Concept, Choreography: Isabelle Schad / Creation, Performance: Josephine Findeisen (Dance, Co-coreography, voice), Raoul Lesage (Sound&amp / live Composition) / Light design: Fabian Bleisch /Costume: Charlotte Pistorius / Set design: Umberto Freddi, Isabelle Schad / Voice training: Ignacio Joaquin / Social Media: Rike Nölting / PR, outreach: Elena Basteri / Production management: Heiko Schramm

Production: Isabelle Schad. Co-production: HAU Hebbel am Ufer, PACT Zollverein. Funded by: Berlin Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion. Supported by: NATIONALES PERFORMANCE NETZ Coproduction Fund for Dance, which is funded by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media.

Published 14 October, 2024

On 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. we invite you in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg to a special edition of Open Practice Session which offers a physical introduction to “Mirroring”, my new work that is going to premiere at HAU3 on November 7.

Together with dancer and co-creator Josephine Findeisen will share movement and breathing practices that are at the centre of “Mirroring”.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you are invited to take part in a short warm-up that playfully incorporates principles from Qi Gong and Aikido in order to feel the relationship to oneself in relation to one’s partner and the group. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the stage setting with the musician Raoul Lesage: a reflective space that acoustically resonates with your own movements.

We look forward to your registrations at: ten.d1733741274ahcs-1733741274elleb1733741274asi@o1733741274fni1733741274

WHERE: Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, Wiesenstrasse 55 / 13357 Berlin – Wedding

WHEN: 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 am

HOW TO GET THERE: S-Bahn Humboldthain / U8 Pankstrasse / Bus M27

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Pic. by Benjamin Busch, all rights reserved

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 1 November 2024

The next premiere is approaching: “Mirroring”, a choreographic portrait for Josephine Findeisen will be shown at HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3) in Berlin from 7 – 10 November.

We hope to see you there!

Photo: Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

“Mirroring” is an encounter with dancer and choreographer Josephine Findeisen, including her physical qualities, energy, and voice, which become the delicate traces of a detailed, sensual, and poetic drawing. Her movement research on hands and arms meets Isabelle Schad’s ongoing choreographic practice around the universal power of the hands, the principles of shifting the centre of gravity and aikido. In “Mirroring”, Findeisen lifts, drags, and spins metal plates: heavy materials become her instrument, her clothing, or even an extension of her body. Hybrid relationships connecting weight and sound, labour and sensuality, voice and echo gradually unfold in a reflective space.

Premiere: 7.11.2024, 7 p.m.
Further performances: 8.11 + 9.11 (19 Uhr / 7p.m.) + 10.11.2024 (17 Uhr / 5p.m.)

Venue: HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3), Tempelhofer Ufer 10, 10963 Berlin

Info / Tickets: hebbel-am-ufer.de

Team
Concept, Choreography: Isabelle Schad / Creation, Performance: Josephine Findeisen (Dance, Co-coreography, voice), Raoul Lesage (Sound&amp / live Composition) / Light design: Fabian Bleisch /Costume: Charlotte Pistorius / Set design: Umberto Freddi, Isabelle Schad / Voice training: Ignacio Joaquin / Social Media: Rike Nölting / PR, outreach: Elena Basteri / Production management: Heiko Schramm

Production: Isabelle Schad. Co-production: HAU Hebbel am Ufer, PACT Zollverein. Funded by: Berlin Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion. Supported by: NATIONALES PERFORMANCE NETZ Coproduction Fund for Dance, which is funded by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media.

Published 14 October, 2024

On 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. we invite you in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg to a special edition of Open Practice Session which offers a physical introduction to “Mirroring”, my new work that is going to premiere at HAU3 on November 7.

Together with dancer and co-creator Josephine Findeisen will share movement and breathing practices that are at the centre of “Mirroring”.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you are invited to take part in a short warm-up that playfully incorporates principles from Qi Gong and Aikido in order to feel the relationship to oneself in relation to one’s partner and the group. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the stage setting with the musician Raoul Lesage: a reflective space that acoustically resonates with your own movements.

We look forward to your registrations at: ten.d1733741274ahcs-1733741274elleb1733741274asi@o1733741274fni1733741274

WHERE: Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, Wiesenstrasse 55 / 13357 Berlin – Wedding

WHEN: 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 am

HOW TO GET THERE: S-Bahn Humboldthain / U8 Pankstrasse / Bus M27

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Pic. by Benjamin Busch, all rights reserved

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 1 November 2024

The next premiere is approaching: “Mirroring”, a choreographic portrait for Josephine Findeisen will be shown at HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3) in Berlin from 7 – 10 November.

We hope to see you there!

Photo: Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

“Mirroring” is an encounter with dancer and choreographer Josephine Findeisen, including her physical qualities, energy, and voice, which become the delicate traces of a detailed, sensual, and poetic drawing. Her movement research on hands and arms meets Isabelle Schad’s ongoing choreographic practice around the universal power of the hands, the principles of shifting the centre of gravity and aikido. In “Mirroring”, Findeisen lifts, drags, and spins metal plates: heavy materials become her instrument, her clothing, or even an extension of her body. Hybrid relationships connecting weight and sound, labour and sensuality, voice and echo gradually unfold in a reflective space.

Premiere: 7.11.2024, 7 p.m.
Further performances: 8.11 + 9.11 (19 Uhr / 7p.m.) + 10.11.2024 (17 Uhr / 5p.m.)

Venue: HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3), Tempelhofer Ufer 10, 10963 Berlin

Info / Tickets: hebbel-am-ufer.de

Team
Concept, Choreography: Isabelle Schad / Creation, Performance: Josephine Findeisen (Dance, Co-coreography, voice), Raoul Lesage (Sound&amp / live Composition) / Light design: Fabian Bleisch /Costume: Charlotte Pistorius / Set design: Umberto Freddi, Isabelle Schad / Voice training: Ignacio Joaquin / Social Media: Rike Nölting / PR, outreach: Elena Basteri / Production management: Heiko Schramm

Production: Isabelle Schad. Co-production: HAU Hebbel am Ufer, PACT Zollverein. Funded by: Berlin Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion. Supported by: NATIONALES PERFORMANCE NETZ Coproduction Fund for Dance, which is funded by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media.

Published 14 October, 2024

On 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. we invite you in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg to a special edition of Open Practice Session which offers a physical introduction to “Mirroring”, my new work that is going to premiere at HAU3 on November 7.

Together with dancer and co-creator Josephine Findeisen will share movement and breathing practices that are at the centre of “Mirroring”.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you are invited to take part in a short warm-up that playfully incorporates principles from Qi Gong and Aikido in order to feel the relationship to oneself in relation to one’s partner and the group. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the stage setting with the musician Raoul Lesage: a reflective space that acoustically resonates with your own movements.

We look forward to your registrations at: ten.d1733741274ahcs-1733741274elleb1733741274asi@o1733741274fni1733741274

WHERE: Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, Wiesenstrasse 55 / 13357 Berlin – Wedding

WHEN: 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 am

HOW TO GET THERE: S-Bahn Humboldthain / U8 Pankstrasse / Bus M27

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Pic. by Benjamin Busch, all rights reserved

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 31 October, 2024

The next premiere is approaching: “Mirroring”, a choreographic portrait for Josephine Findeisen will be shown at Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3) in Berlin from November 7 until 10.

We hope to see you there!

“Mirroring” is an encounter with dancer and choreographer Josephine Findeisen, including her physical qualities, energy, and voice, which become the delicate traces of a detailed, sensual, and poetic drawing. Her movement research on hands and arms meets Isabelle Schad’s ongoing choreographic practice around the universal power of the hands, the principles of shifting the centre of gravity and aikido. In “Mirroring”, Findeisen lifts, drags, and spins metal plates: heavy materials become her instrument, her clothing, or even an extension of her body. Hybrid relationships connecting weight and sound, labour and sensuality, voice and echo gradually unfold in a reflective space.

Premiere: 7.11.2024, 7 p.m.

Further performances: 8.11 + 9.11 (19 Uhr / 7p.m.) + 10.11.2024 (17 Uhr / 5p.m.)

Venue: HAU Hebbel am Ufer (HAU3), Tempelhofer Ufer 10, 10963 Berlin

Info / Tickets: https://www.hebbel-am-ufer.de

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Concept, Choreography: Isabelle Schad / Creation, Performance: Josephine Findeisen (Dance, Co-coreography, voice), Raoul Lesage (Sound&amp / live Composition) / Light design: Fabian Bleisch /Costume: Charlotte Pistorius / Set design: Umberto Freddi, Isabelle Schad / Voice training: Ignacio Joaquin / Social Media: Rike Nölting / PR, outreach: Elena Basteri / Production management: Heiko Schramm

Production: Isabelle Schad. Co-production: HAU Hebbel am Ufer, PACT Zollverein. Funded by: Berlin Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion. Supported by: NATIONALES PERFORMANCE NETZ Coproduction Fund for Dance, which is funded by the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and the Media.

Published 14 October, 2024

On 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. we invite you in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg to a special edition of Open Practice Session which offers a physical introduction to “Mirroring”, my new work that is going to premiere at HAU3 on November 7.

Together with dancer and co-creator Josephine Findeisen will share movement and breathing practices that are at the centre of “Mirroring”.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you are invited to take part in a short warm-up that playfully incorporates principles from Qi Gong and Aikido in order to feel the relationship to oneself in relation to one’s partner and the group. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the stage setting with the musician Raoul Lesage: a reflective space that acoustically resonates with your own movements.

We look forward to your registrations at: ten.d1733741274ahcs-1733741274elleb1733741274asi@o1733741274fni1733741274

WHERE: Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, Wiesenstrasse 55 / 13357 Berlin – Wedding

WHEN: 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 am

HOW TO GET THERE: S-Bahn Humboldthain / U8 Pankstrasse / Bus M27

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Pic. by Benjamin Busch, all rights reserved

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 14 October, 2024

On 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. we invite you in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg to a special edition of Open Practice Session which offers a physical introduction to “Mirroring”, my new work that is going to premiere at HAU3 on November 7.

Together with dancer and co-creator Josephine Findeisen will share movement and breathing practices that are at the centre of “Mirroring”.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you are invited to take part in a short warm-up that playfully incorporates principles from Qi Gong and Aikido in order to feel the relationship to oneself in relation to one’s partner and the group. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the stage setting with the musician Raoul Lesage: a reflective space that acoustically resonates with your own movements.

We look forward to your registrations at: ten.d1733741274ahcs-1733741274elleb1733741274asi@o1733741274fni1733741274

WHERE: Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, Wiesenstrasse 55 / 13357 Berlin – Wedding

WHEN: 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 am

HOW TO GET THERE: S-Bahn Humboldthain / U8 Pankstrasse / Bus M27

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Pic. by Benjamin Busch, all rights reserved

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 14 October, 2024

On 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. we invite you in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg to a special edition of Open Practice Session which offers a physical introduction to “Mirroring”, my new work that is going to premiere at HAU3 on November 7.

Together with dancer and co-creator Josephine Findeisen will share movement and breathing practices that are at the centre of “Mirroring”.

In a relaxed atmosphere, you are invited to take part in a short warm-up that playfully incorporates principles from Qi Gong and Aikido in order to feel the relationship to oneself in relation to one’s partner and the group. Afterwards, there will be time to explore the stage setting with the musician Raoul Lesage: a reflective space that acoustically resonates with your own movements.

We look forward to your registrations at: ten.d1733741274ahcs-1733741274elleb1733741274asi@o1733741274fni1733741274

WHERE: Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, Wiesenstrasse 55 / 13357 Berlin – Wedding

WHEN: 22 October from 10:00 to 11:30 am

HOW TO GET THERE: S-Bahn Humboldthain / U8 Pankstrasse / Bus M27

Comfortable clothing is recommended.

Pic. by Benjamin Busch, all rights reserved

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 20 September, 2024

On 29 and 30 September 2024 in the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg, we have the pleasure to show again Yuki-Onna | Die Schneefrau, a dance piece for all generations, currently nominated for the Ikarus Prize 2024.

Yuki Onna is a Japanese myth. It tells the story of a mysterious woman with long black hair who appears in the cold snow and invites all the children she encounters to play with the wind. The stage is transformed into a white snowy landscape, while image evoking excerpts from the fairy tale in English, German and Japanese merge with Aya Toraiwa’s movements to create a sensual and poetic dance experience.

Pic. by Dieter Hartwig, all rights reserved

Dates: 29.09.2024,  4 p.m. (relaxed performance) AND 30.09.2024, 10 a.m.

Tickets and more Info: https://www.theater-on.de/

Published 18 June, 2024

It’s that time of the year again!
This year’s edition of the Wiesenburg Sommerfest.ival  will take place June 28-30 at the Tanzhalle and Werkhalle Wiesenburg.

We are happy to share a reach program of performances, installations, concerts, lecture performances and shiatsu sessions!
Among other things Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape by Isabelle Schad will be presented as well as the new format HANDS DANCES.

Studies on Infinity #2 – Nudity and Landscape is a further iteration of a long-term research into movement materials and their potential for infinite variation. Drawing on principles anchored in Zen, somatics, qi gong, aikido and breathing techniques, the choreographic material will unfold its power as a durational installation performance.

HANDS DANCES is a new format for the transmission of practice conceived by Isabelle Schad. HANDS DANCES are a choreographic tribute to the agility and functionality of hands as well as a celebration of the sensory perception of the world through music and dance. HANDS DANCES are based on a series of principles. These serve as guidelines for choreographies to be developed by fellow dancers and choreographers.

Looking forward to see you at the Wiesenburg and celebrate summer together!

Sommerfest.ival 2024

Venues: Tanzhalle & Werkhalle Wiesenburg: Wiesenstraße 55, 13357 Berlin
Tickets: Pay what you can (recommended donation 5-15 €)

Sommerfest.ival 2024 is supported by the production location funding of the Senate Department for Culture and Social Cohesion – Department of Culture

Published 7 June, 2024

We are looking forward to the premiere of Handarbeit tonight in the frame of OSTEN Festival.

This is a collaborative work with Nora Mertes, Josephine Findeisen, Claudia Tomasi and a group of 12 women from Bitterfeld-Wolfen. A huge piece of research into our hands, work, dances and many other related topics has emerged from a participatory process, which has led to deep, touching encounters.
The work will be also shown in Berlin: on Sunday 16 June at the Humboldtforum.

Published 10 April, 2024

The fruitful collaboration with Theater o.N. and dancer Aya Toraiwa continues and the next premiere is approaching: on 28 April we present Yuki Onna, a Japanese fairy tale about a mysterious woman with long black hair who dives into the cold snow and invites all the children (and adults) to play with the wind. A warm invitation to an “all ages” dance experience!

-Sunday 28 April, 4 pm + Monday 29 April, 10 am at the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg

-Friday 3 May, 10 am + Saturday 4 May and Sunday 5 May, 4 pm at Theater o.N. 

Click here for further info and tickets.

Published 22 March, 2024

The last two weeks have been incredibly rich and intense in practice and research within our mobile ensemble. We have started the OPS trainings with a focus on aikido and sword, before having Master Gerd Walter coming in for the week-end 16/17.3 giving us an aikido intensive workshop. He has been coming to the Tanzhalle Wiesenburg – our precious space being transformed for this occasion to a mobile Dojo – for the very first time. It has been a great experience, to be continued with.
In the past few days we have continued our open practice sessions with sword training, shaitsu and some opening research around a new project called Hands Dances.

Another inspiring workshop on aikido/sword has been held by Master Jochen Knau on thursday 21.3 followed by further sessions dedicated to our hands studies and shiatsu.

Thank you everyone for the enthusiasm, dedication and willingness to embark on this ongoing research journey together.