2007 » Germany » Architecture section
Curator: | Karin Winkelsesser, Karin Winkelsesser |
Authors of Theme: | Horst Birr, Horst Birr |
Designer / Architect of exhibition: | Horst Birr |
Other collaborators: | Virginija Idzelyte, Renata Valčik, Theatre Potsdam , Architect Prof. Böhm |
Institution: | DTHG, Architekturbüro Horst Birr |
Theatre and More - the New Theatre in Potsdam
The Example of the New Theatre in Potsdam The theatre history of Potsdam and the history of the new building reflect in particular the changing significance of theatre in Germany’s cultural life, but also the turbulences after reunification. The new theatre of Potsdam and its historical context is presented as an example of new developments in German theatre culture. The theatres now need to generate their own income. Are there solutions that architecture can offer? The theatre of Potsdam looks like a traditional theatre but is in fact amulti-purpose building. The exhibition explains the concept and gives examples of its versatility. History The city theatre was destroyed in the last days of World War II. The resident company received an ancient dance hall to use as its theatre, though the necessity to build a new theatre was never questioned. In the last years of the GDR, the construction of a new building began in the old historical centre of Potsdam. After reunification, the plans changed, as the entire historical centre was earmarked for reconstruction. The recent building was demolished, and a competition for the new theatre began, as well as finding a new site for the building. Fifteen years passed before the new theatre was to open in September 2006. The New Building Architect Gottfried Böhm won the international competition. He designed a theatre that opens onto the waterfront of the Havel River. On the rearside, it is integrated into an historical group of former industrial and military buildings. The riding halls are now used as rehearsal stages and a childrens’ theatre. With its large glass front facing the water, and its curved concrete roof, the building has been named a “rose“, an “orchid“ and even a “Little Sydney“. An open air theatre is integrated on the grounds, and in the summer, access to the theatre can be obtained by boat. From outside, the building is open and inviting. The Functions The main entrance of the theatre is from the land side, where the administrative offices and the various workshops of the theatre are located. Once the visitor has entered the foyer, he will be drawn to an upper foyer with its impressive panoramic view over Potsdam’s cultural landscape. The transparency of the foyer continues towards the auditorium. Its back – which faces the waterfront – is made of glass, which is very unusual for a theatre. The auditorium, which holds approximately 475 seats, can be darkened by black curtains. The theatre of Potsdam is used primarily for drama, though opera and dance theatre can also be accommodated. The exhibition shows the technology and also illustrates the different ways this flexible space can be utilized.