FAVORITEN Festival
In the page's words:
Welcome to the FAVORITEN Festival 2026!
The focus is on encounters - between people, perspectives and artistic positions. The performing arts thrive on coming together, both in the rehearsal process and in the performance itself. Whether on stage or in public space - nothing works for us without an audience. Every two years, Dortmund becomes a meeting place for the independent performing arts community with lots of theater, dance and performance. A selection of aesthetically innovative and remarkable performances from all over NRW are shown. Artists and their work meet a curious audience. We look forward to surprising experiences, unexpected adventures and shared conversations!
PUBLIC RETREATS
Under the title Public Retreats - Retreat into Society, we are devoting ourselves to current social issues. In a time of systemic upheaval and change, existing norms and values are being renegotiated - especially the relationship between private and public life: Why is everyone so exhausted? How do we recover? Who can afford to take time out? Who has the energy to get involved? Who has no choice but to withdraw? How do we get through the crises in solidarity? Who needs our support? We don't want to answer these questions conclusively at the festival - we want to think ahead together and open up new spaces for thought. We look forward to a festival of the arts and encounters!
Jonas Leifert and Rika Sakalak
Artistic direction
