Impending construction freeze at the Komische Oper Berlin

The artistic ensembles and all employees of the Komische Oper Berlin are very concerned about the impending halt to the construction of the main building in Behrenstrasse. According to media reports, there are plans to stop the renovation work that is already underway. Stopping construction or extending the construction period is extremely dangerous for the future and the existence of the Komische Oper. The Schillertheater is only suitable as an interim venue and can only be used by all colleagues in their daily work with major compromises. Remaining in the Schillertheater for too long is unacceptable from the point of view of the staff.

The need for a general refurbishment of the dilapidated building in Berlin-Mitte has been known for 30 years. Last year, work finally began on the renovation. Any delay now will inevitably lead to rising renovation costs. If refurbishment is halted, the world-famous ensemble, whose origins lie in the former East Berlin and from where it gained international significance, could come to an end.

Raphael Westermeier (Vice President of the GDBA): "The colleagues at the Komische Oper have been successfully campaigning for a low-threshold and comprehensible musical theater experience for years. The GDBA is calling on the Berlin Senate and the House of Representatives not to delay the refurbishment. In this situation, a clear commitment to the future of the Komische Oper at its historic location in Berlin Mitte is needed. The staff of the Komische Oper do not deserve to be deprived of their future prospects."