Farewell to Claus Peymann: A theater legend leaves forever

Farewell to Claus Peymann: A theater legend leaves forever

The theater world has lost one of its greatest visionaries. Claus Peymann, born in Bremen in 1937, died on July 16, 2025 in Berlin-Köpenick. His extensive work as a director and artistic director has not only shaped German theater, but has also had an impact beyond its borders. Peymann became particularly famous for his time at the Berliner Ensemble, and his productions set standards in theater history. Jewish General is reminiscent of his radical and often controversial works.

His career began in 1966 with the premiere of Peter Handke's “Audience Insult” at the Frankfurt Theater am Turm. Peymann was considered a tireless pioneer who repeatedly caused a stir with his work. He took over his first acting direction in Stuttgart in 1974, before working at the Schauspielhaus Bochum between 1979 and 1986 and then at the Burgtheater in Vienna until 1999. His production of Thomas Bernhard's “Heldenplatz” in 1988, which was celebrated as an event of the century, is particularly remembered.

A steadfast theater maker

Peymann was not only a master of staging, but also known for his direct demeanor and his strict directing approaches. He had a keen sense of great talent and discovered numerous important actors during his time. In addition to Gert Voss, his close confidants included Ignaz Kirchner. These personal connections made him the focus of his theater. The mirror reports that his last years were marked by health difficulties, but Peymann remained active and committed to the theater until the end.

His life's work is recognized as inexhaustible and innovative. He knew how to challenge the audience with his productions and make them think. His ability to bring explosive current affairs topics to the stage was a hallmark of his work. Despite controversial actions, such as collecting donations for the RAF terrorist Gudrun Ensslin, he remained an influential figure in the theater business.

An influence that remains

Theater history has benefited enormously from Peymann's work. Theatergeschichte.org offers an overview of his influences and achievements. From his beginnings to his directorship at the Berliner Ensemble, he remains a fascinating example of the power of theater.

In conclusion, it becomes clear that Claus Peymann was not just a director, but an avenger and an inspirer, whose legacy continues to live in the theater scenes. His life's work will certainly attract many new artists and viewers in the coming years, because his visions are worth hearing and seeing.