Theatre renovation project is reassessed
Alternatives for the Chemnitz theatre are being examined
The theatre renovation project must be reassessed. This was decided today by the city council.
Intensive investigations by experts have shown that modernising the Schauspielhaus to today's standards will cost significantly more than the previously estimated budget of around 16 million euros. According to the new documents, the previously planned schedule, which envisaged the theatre opening in 2026, is also no longer realistic.
In order to find a long-term, sustainable and appropriate solution for the Chemnitz theatres, the City of Chemnitz will now examine and investigate alternatives together with the City Council and the theatres.
The theatre and puppet theatre are currently housed in the Spinnbau in Altchemnitz and can continue to use this venue.
Building Mayor Michael Stötzer: "Unfortunately, the results of the investigations by the engineering and planning offices have shown that the budget currently provided is not sufficient for a sensible modernisation of the Schauspielhaus as the long-term home of the Chemnitz theatres. The serious need for refurbishment with a current cost estimate of around 34 million euros cannot be financially secured at the present time. This means that a possible reopening in 2026 is not realistic. An affordable and permanent solution must be found as quickly as possible and ultimately implemented."
Mayor of Culture Dagmar Ruscheinsky: "I am very saddened by the planners' findings and the resulting interim result. I had hoped for a financially viable solution. The Chemnitz theatre has a great artistic tradition that must be continued. However, in view of the current budget situation, the funding problem cannot be ignored. I am sure that, together with the theatres, we will be able to offer interesting alternative venues, not only for the Theatre of the World festival in 2026."
The General Director of Chemnitz Theatre, Christoph Dittrich, is disappointed by these results, but is looking ahead: "We will make the best of the situation in these difficult times and find a good solution for the theatres together with the city councillors and the administration. The Spinnbau is still available to us and that's good. We will find a creative programme and many attractive venues in the city for the Theater der Welt 2026 festival, and the concrete planning for this will begin next year."