Bremen’s Shakespeare Company is embracing a fresh approach to theatre with its upcoming festival, “Liebe geht raus” (Love is Out), running from March 6th to 15th, 2026. The company is aiming to attract a younger audience with a program that extends far beyond traditional performances, incorporating interactive experiences and unexpected workshops.
The “tolldreisten Theatertage” (daring theatre days) promise a vibrant mix of events, from a Romeo and Juliet-themed masked ball to speed dating with Shakespearean characters like Macbeth. This innovative programming reflects a period of change for the Bremer Shakespeare Company, which celebrated its 43rd anniversary this year. New General Manager Hellena Harttung explained the goal is to lower the barrier to entry for theatre, making it more accessible and engaging for a wider demographic.
Beyond the familiar Bard, the festival will feature a performance of Magdalena Julia Simmel’s song cycle “Allein in der Bar” (Alone in the Bar), and a unique workshop led by actor Michael Meyer teaching the art of stage combat – specifically, stick fighting. This blend of traditional and unconventional elements is central to the festival’s appeal.
Harttung took over leadership of the company last spring, succeeding Renate Heitmann, who guided the company for over 30 years. The transition also saw the retirements of long-standing company members Peter Lüchinger, Erik Roßbander, and Heike Neugebauer. However, Harttung expressed confidence in the future, stating, “I am looking forward to us hiring one or two new actresses soon. That will bring movement into the house.”
A Company in Evolution
Heitmann echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the natural evolution of the ensemble. “The ensemble changes naturally, sometimes more, sometimes less – and always grows together again,” she said. “New people bring new qualities.” This philosophy is particularly relevant given the Bremer Shakespeare Company’s unique structure as a self-governing theatre, where the ensemble collectively decides on artistic direction, rather than being guided by a single artistic director.
The company experienced a dip in attendance during the COVID-19 pandemic, a challenge shared by theatres worldwide. However, Harttung reports a resurgence in audience numbers. In normal years, the Bremer Shakespeare Company welcomes between 30,000 and 36,000 visitors annually, according to Heitmann, and early indications suggest they are on track to meet those numbers again this season. The success of “Liebe geht raus” is expected to further boost attendance.
What to Expect at “Liebe geht raus”
The festival offers a diverse range of activities. Attendees can participate in workshops focusing on voice and speech, rhythm and percussion, in addition to the aforementioned stick fighting. A unique event, “Herzblatt & Wirsing” (Heartleaf & Cabbage), invites attendees to “date” Shakespearean characters and participate in karaoke-style sonnet singing. The festival also includes a scientific exploration of the emotions in Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing” in collaboration with the University of Bremen, and “Bremenliebe” (Bremen Love) walking tours of the Neustadt district.
Ticket prices vary depending on the event, ranging up to €30, with reduced rates of €15 available. Students from Bremen and Ottersberg are eligible for free admission to many events. More information about the festival and the full schedule can be found on the Bremer Shakespeare Company’s website.
The Bremer Shakespeare Company’s “Liebe geht raus” festival demonstrates a commitment to innovation and community engagement, offering a fresh and accessible take on classic works and a welcoming space for both seasoned theatregoers and newcomers alike. The company’s willingness to experiment with interactive formats and unconventional workshops signals a dynamic future for this Bremen institution.
As the festival unfolds, it will be interesting to see how these new approaches resonate with audiences and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the Bremer Shakespeare Company. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
