Towers haven't actually existed for a long time. In the Middle Ages, they were responsible for warning the town or castle of danger from the highest tower. In the 21st century, approaching troops, gangs or undetected fires are the exception rather than the rule - nevertheless, Munich will soon be overlooked by two towers* every day. The "Türmer München" project is a participatory performance by choreographer Joanne Leighton, which will take place on the roof of the Gasteig from 12.12.2020 to 12.12.2021.

The performance has been active in various cities since 2011 - always new and yet always the same. Following the medieval model, 730 participants will stand high above the Philharmonie twice a day, 365 days a year, for an hour at a time, overlooking the city. The participants will be in a protected viewing room and will watch over their city for one hour at sunrise or sunset, thus becoming part of the year-long performance.

An hour away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life

By the way, cell phones are not allowed! The doormen should be completely present. Here, high above the rooftops of Munich, they have an hour of time and space all to themselves, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The doormen enter into a new connection with the city, which they can view from a unique perspective. They will learn how this works in a preparatory workshop. There will also be an opening and closing ceremony to frame the year, as well as quarterly exchange meetings with all the towers.

© Benjamin Tovo

This raises the question: do the towers look at the city and its choreography or do the city and its inhabitants look at the towers? The illuminated viewing room on the roof of the Gasteig, designed by architect Benjamin Tovo, is clearly visible from the street.

Conditions of participation

Have you become curious and would like to actively participate in the performance as a Türmer? Anyone aged 16 and over who is not afraid of heights and is sure-footed can become a Türmer, but places are filling up fast. Due to the high demand, the dates for Munich are staggered into quarters. All dates are currently fully booked until 30.04.2021. You can apply for the next quarter from 01.03.2021.

01.03.2021: Dates from 01.05.2021 to 30.08.2021 (time to be announced)
01.07.2021: Dates from 01.09.2021 to 12.12.2021 (time to be announced)

* whether female, male or diverse: the term "Türmer" includes everyone!

This content has been machine translated.