Frank Castorf wins 2016 Grand Berlin Art Prize as six artists receive awards

Frank Castorf, the German theatre director, has been honored with the 2016 Grand Berlin Art Prize, which includes a €15,000 award. His recognition stems from his influential tenure at the Volksbühne, a contemporary theatre known for its provocative and experimental productions in Germany. Since 1992, Castorf has served as the artistic director of this institution. In 2015, it was announced that he would depart from his role, with Chris Dercon set to take over in 2017. Additionally, the 2016 Berlin Art Prize will be awarded to six artists across various disciplines, each receiving €5,000. The recipients include Sven Johne in visual arts, Office Kersten Geers David van Severen in architecture, Stefan Prins in music, Angelika Meier in literature, Anna Prohaska in performing arts, and Peter Avar in film and media arts. The prizes highlight achievements in diverse creative fields, with the awards ceremony reflecting Berlin's vibrant cultural scene. The announcement was made public in March 2016, underscoring the ongoing recognition of artistic innovation in the city.