More than half of international travellers head to Germany for its art and cultural scene. It isn’t surprising when you consider the creativity oozing out of the major cities, from the buzzing cultural hub of Berlin; to Hamburg, home of the Elbe Philharmonic Hall; and Cologne, the city of art on the Rhine.
Whilst traditionally known as the country of poets and philosophers, the evolution of the new “Creative Germany” brand from the famous “Made in Germany” label is opening Germany to a new generation of young and creative minds. De facto brand ambassadors include contemporary painters Neo Rauch, Bernhard Heisig, Werner Tübke and Wolfgang Mattheurer, who are just some of the names setting trends and pushing the boundaries of art along with a surge of international architects, designers and creators of fashion who have been drawn to the area. ‘Creative Germany’ will allow you to discover all of Germany’s diversity including architecture, art, design, music, fashion and events. Some of Germany’s creative events include:
2012 Potsdam Dance Festival – May 23-June 3
This international festival of contemporary dance and performance offers a stage for acclaimed choreographers and companies, up-and-coming talents, the newly discovered, premiere shows and established favourites. The vibrant, dynamic and prestigious world of modern dance and performance is represented in its multi-faceted form here. Workshops are available for professionals, amateurs, the curious and even families for the chance to get better acquainted with dance across a range of genres and styles.
Coburg Design Festival – June 5-10
The 24th Coburg Design Festival is a change to gain insight into current student projects and interactive exhibitions, which not only confront visitors with the creative works of young designers but also encourage them to share their thoughts and opinions. The event focuses on integrated product design, architecture, interior design and civil engineering.
movimentos – April 10-May 20
Autostadt Wolfsburg will once again provide the venue for the 10th movimentos Festival which includes contemporary dance ensembles; classical, jazz and pop concerts; and dramatised readings and talks. A number of artists will be making a welcome return including the Flemish-Moroccan choreographer, Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, who will be presenting his latest work TeZukA – a homage to Manga artist Osamu Tezuka.
Joining a host of other international acts is the Cloud Gate Dance Theatre of Taiwan. This year’s festival also includes six concerts starring great Italian vocalists such as Salvatore Russo, Stefano Bollani & Enrico Rava, and Ludovico Einaudi to celebrate 50 years of Italian immigrants in Wolfsburg. To top it off, rock and pop icon Peter Gabriel will be making a guest appearance at the KraftWerk.
(source: etravelblackboard.com/GNTB)
