Volksbühne Theater staff protest Chris Dercon's appointment over fears of artistic transformation

Employees at Berlin's Volksbühne Theater have voiced opposition to the upcoming leadership of Chris Dercon, former director of Tate Modern. In an open letter dated Monday 20 June, 172 actors, designers, and theatre staff addressed the city senate and German culture minister Monika Grütters. Their concerns center on Dercon's conceptual plans potentially turning the venue into a 'festival house', which they argue could stifle artistic experimentation and politically engaged art. The protestors also worry about possible job reductions. While these objections follow a general assembly with future management, the employees clarified that their critique targets decision-makers rather than Dercon personally. They accuse these officials of undermining the theatre's originality and diversity. Dercon is scheduled to assume his position as director next year.