Frankfurt Oder Celebrates Kleist Festival with a Vibrant Blend of Arts

The city of Frankfurt (Oder) is gearing up to host the highly anticipated Kleist Festival from October 7 to 12, 2025. This year's event promises to be an eclectic celebration of artistic expression, combining theater, literature, and music to honor the legacy of renowned playwright Heinrich von Kleist, born in the city in 1777.

In a modern twist, the festival will explore contemporary themes including climate change and the rise of extremism, reflecting the relevance of Kleist's work in today's society. The festival's programming will feature a diverse array of performances, including a punk opera titled Schroffenstein: In Grund und Boden, which uniquely blends arias with punk music and spoken scenes, showcasing the versatility of Kleist's narratives.

In addition to theatrical performances, attendees can look forward to special exhibitions and guided tours at the Kleist Museum, the only museum dedicated to the playwright in Germany. The museum's director emphasized the influence of music on Kleist's creative process, highlighting his background as a clarinet virtuoso.

One of the standout productions is a new play by playwright Theresia Walser, which delves into the radicalization of a school under a right-wing government. This contemporary adaptation aims to resonate with audiences by addressing issues that are increasingly pertinent in today's political climate.

Florian Vogel, the artistic director of the Kleist Forum, remarked on the festival's fresh relevance, noting that the themes presented on stage have never felt more timely. The festival aims to bring Kleist's works into the present, serving as a mirror to the complexities of modern life.

Among other highlights, classic works such as Der zerbrochne Krug will be featured prominently, as it has recently been included in the national curriculum for high school students in Germany. The ongoing popularity of Kleist's plays, including Michael Kohlhaas, underscores the playwright's lasting impact on contemporary theater.

Looking ahead, the city plans to commemorate the 250th anniversary of Kleist's birth in 2027 with a dedicated Kleist Year, promising even more opportunities to celebrate and reflect on his contributions to literature and theater.