Nebenan/Vedle

As part of the “Nebenan” series, HELLERAU regularly presents contemporary theater, dance performances, installations, and an accompanying program of discussions from countries and regions in Europe where independent artists work under difficult political conditions. Following Belarus (2022), Ukraine (2023), Hungary (2024), and Slovakia (2025), HELLERAU will focus on the independent performing arts scene in the Czech Republic in 2027.

The Czech Republic has a rich theatrical landscape that has evolved over time, featuring ensemble theaters, Czech drama, musical theater, and the world-famous puppet and marionette theater. In recent decades, a highly diverse scene of independent theater and performance art, contemporary dance, and circus arts has developed. This vibrant scene is reflected in a multitude of artistic projects and institutional ties to production houses, guest performance venues, and festivals.

Since the parliamentary elections in the Czech Republic in October 2025, government policy under the new (former) Prime Minister Andrej Babiš of the populist “ANO Party” has changed significantly. With coalition partners including the far-right “Freedom and Direct Democracy” (SPD) party and the “Drivers for Themselves” (AUTO) party, the political situation in the Czech Republic is marked by a significant shift to the right and a realignment of policy.

Oto Klempíř of the AUTO Party is responsible for cultural affairs. He has already caused a stir with his plans to abolish radio and television license fees - a move that has sparked major protests due to fears that public broadcasting could be subject to political influence. Substantial cuts to the Ministry of Culture’s budget are further exacerbating tensions and causing concern throughout the cultural sector. In recent discussions with cultural professionals and artists, there is growing concern that the new government will pursue a right-wing nationalist cultural policy and curtail the cultural diversity that has existed until now.

HELLERAU is particularly interested in inviting representatives of the independent scene to present their artistic work and cultural strategies, with the aim of fostering a deeper exchange between both sides during these uncertain times and thereby facilitating further collaborations. “Nebenan/Vedle. Independent Art from the Czech Republic” invites artists and key figures from the vibrant contemporary cultural landscape to present their work at HELLERAU and engage in dialogue with the audience. Accompanying the exhibition, experts and representatives of civil society will provide context on the history and present-day situation of the Czech Republic.

With: Jan Mocek, Tereza Ondrová/Temporary Collective, Viktor Černický, Cirk La Putyka and many more.