Tanzplattform 2012

The HELLERAU festival hall stands for innovation in movement, perhaps more than any other theatre in Germany. Here, 100 years ago, Émile Jaques-Dalcroze founded his Rhythmics School, Adolphe Appia created the prototype open stage, Alexander von Salzmann developed his revolutionary and legendary system of lighting and Heinrich Tessenow designed the imposing architecture with its inspired symmetry and balance. Today HELLERAU is certainly the premier location for contemporary dance in eastern Germany. We are pleased to be able to share this unique venue with the international dance community during the GERMAN DANCE PLATFORM 2012.

Unlike in previous years, the programme of the GERMAN DANCE PLATFORM 2012 was not entirely determined by the jury. For the first time, the DANCE PLATFORM’s co-organizers invited some additional, internationally renowned companies to take part: The Forsythe Company, Constanza Macras / Dorky Park, Meg Stuart / Damaged Goods and Sasha Waltz & Guests are among the most esteemed and influential representatives of German dance theatre.

The jury’s selection of ten very diverse, outstanding choreographies forms a cross-section of nearly all styles and formats current in contemporary German dance. An additional ten choreographers will also profile their work in newly introduced pitching sessions.

One more new element is featured in the side programme: a premiere by the Semperoper Ballett of choreographies by William Forsythe. This will offer our guests the opportunity to visit the world famous Semper Opera and is a conscious move on our part to stretch the bounds of the DANCE PLATFORM concept and open it to ballet.

We would like to thank all those who have helped to realize the GERMAN DANCE PLATFORM 2012 in Dresden, especially Staatsschauspiel Dresden for their cooperation, and look forward with them to welcoming many guests from all over the world.