During this summer school, you will travel through the border region with young people from Germany and the Czech Republic. You will discover historic sites and work with primary sources, such as interviews, photographs, newspaper articles and archive material. Together, you will research stories from the Nazi era and the period that followed, bringing them to life on stage using documentary theatre techniques.

Who can participate?

Young people and young adults aged 16–25 with a good command of English and an interest in history and/or theatre.

Where will the project take place?

Thalheim, Kadaň, Olbernhau

When will the project take place?

1–9 August 2026

What does participation cost?

We are asking for a participation fee of €50/1000 CZK for all nine days, which includes accommodation and meals.

How can interested participants apply?

As places are limited, there is an application process. To apply, interested participants can send an email in English or German language either to Annemarie Kelpe ([email protected]) or to Anna Vogt ([email protected]). The email should include a short self-introduction (including age), motivation for taking part in the project, and any previous experience in historical research or theatre work, if applicable.

The application deadline is 15 June 2026. We welcome all applications and are delighted to hear from anyone who is interested! 

1 August – Thalheim

Arrival & Getting to Know Each Other

Arrival, getting to know the other participants, initial exercises to help the group bond and establish dynamics.

2 August – Thalheim

Introduction to Documentary Theatre

A theoretical and practical introduction to documentary theatre, engaging with historical sources and contemporary documents.

3 August – Regional explorations

Bringing history to life on site

Excursions to the former Mülsen concentration camp and the mass grave in Schlema – research and engagement with regional remembrance culture.

4 August – Trip to Kadaň (CZ)

Searching for traces in the border region

Cross-border research: historical traces, discussions and explorations in Kadaň.

5 August – Žatec (CZ)

Change of perspective & cultural heritage

Planned visit to the Film Museum and the synagogue in Žatec + discussion of the the artistic work

6 August – Trip to Olbernhau

Getting to know the theatre space

Arrival in Olbernhau and first meeting with the Variabel Theatre.

7 August – Olbernhau

From research to the stage

Intensive stage work and the start of the joint development of the performance.

8 August – Olbernhau

Consolidation & rehearsals

Continuation of stage work, development of scenes and dramaturgical refinement.

9 August – Olbernhau

Dress rehearsal & premiere

Final rehearsals and public premiere of the performance at the Variabel Theatre.