Streit & Zuversicht: Neuanfang: Chance oder Gefahr? Let's debate!

STREIT & ZUVERSICHTto Perform at the Lausitz Festival!

How can upheaval become an opportunity for a new beginning? When does change signify a fresh start, and when does it lead to decline? In regions undergoing structural change, such as Lusatia, these shifts affect not only institutions but also people’s life paths. Yet new beginnings are always seen as a promise: they offer opportunities not merely to succumb to change, but to shape it—as creative beings.

In this edition of the successful debate series “Streit & Zuversicht,” we’ll discuss the following questions as part of the Lausitz Festival: Which forms of conflict are productive, and which are destructive? What role do a sense of belonging, justice, and cultural self-images play when a region reinvents itself? And how do people ensure that transformation doesn’t turn into a creeping loss of control?

“Streit & Zuversicht” brings these questions to the stage: controversially, respectfully, solution-oriented—and with an eye toward the future. On this evening, you’ll follow both a staged debate by a debate club and our panel featuring fascinating individuals from civil society, politics, and culture. What’s more: Through interactive elements, you’ll have the chance to help shape the evening. Get ready for exciting discussions and new perspectives! Get involved, challenge arguments, and become part of the debate.

Featuring, among others: Dr. Uta Bretschneider, Daniel Kühnel, and Cornelius Pollmer

Moderator: Shelly Kupferberg

September 2, 7:00 p.m.

Gerhart-Hauptmann Theater, Zittau

The event is part of the 2026 Lausitz Festival.

Free admission—registration required: https://www.eventbrite.de/e/streit-zuversicht-zu-gast-auf-dem-lausitz-festival-tickets-1988821884795?aff=Rausgegangen

An event presented by the ZEIT STIFTUNG BUCERIUS and Holtzbrinck Berlin.