Theaterpreis des Bundes 2021
Wuppertaler Bühnen und Sinfonieorchester
Jury statement
“Before and during the coronavirus pandemic, the Wuppertaler Bühnen und Sinfonieorchester distinguished itself through diverse and rich extensions (digital stage) to physical performances, that had been prevented by the lockdowns. Under the outgoing general music director, Julia Jones, the three-part company with independent directors of equal rank, who work closely with the autonomous Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch, developed concert formats for new audiences. With updated versions of the classical and modern repertoire, they demonstrate an emphatically contemporary approach. Dramatic works gain a rejuvenating dimension through explorations of the body in space instead of concentrating on the text. The management teams of the Wuppertaler Bühnen und Sinfonieorchester show particular attentiveness to contemporary initiatives relating to digitality (the ‘Share Your Opera’ app with cell phone use during selected performances), diversity, gender equality and the promotion of young talent (NRW Opera Studio). International co-productions in music theater productions and distinctive young directorial signatures add to the pluralism of style and interpretation.” – Jury statement