Die Schule der Diktatoren  

In the framework of our INVOCATIONS programme within the project HISTORICAL CHILDREN, we cordially invite you to a theatre adaptation by mit.mach.bühne by Ballhaus Prinzenallee:

Twenty bodies. Twenty lives. Twenty stories. 
The oldest is over 70 years old, the youngest has just turned 10. 

Erich Kästner wrote the play Die Schule der Diktatoren (The School of Dictators) under the impression of the dictatorships of the first half of the 20th century – a study of power as an end in itself that transcends time. Based on elements of theatre production at Ballhaus Prinzenallee, this group will explore the transmission of knowledge and privileges between generations and translate their thoughts into physical action. Who controls this eternal cycle? To what extent is the youngest generation free in its decisions? How does a person become a mass? And when and how can one break out of the existing systems? 

At a time when society is increasingly shifting to the right, when dialogue between generations is of crucial importance, the participatory stage creates a space in which children and young people can not only share their perspectives but also actively engage with older generations. The performance is a living dialogue that links the experiences, dreams and hopes of the young generation with the stories and wisdom of the older generation.

mit.mach.bühne at Ballhaus Prinzenallee  wants to bring together people who might not have met in "normal life" and create a cosmopolitan, diverse meeting place for generations, social groups and cultures. This stage not only challenges the creative potential of the participants, but also strengthens the sense of community. People from different age groups and backgrounds come together to tell their stories and share their perspectives. We want to bring the reality of life back on stage and be a place of exchange and reflection.