Farewell to Claus Peymann: A theater legend goes forever

Farewell to Claus Peymann: A theater legend goes forever

Berlin-Köpenick, Deutschland - 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 director has not only shaped the German theater, but also worked beyond the borders. Peymann became particularly well -known for his time at the Berlin Ensemble, and his productions set standards in theater history. Jewish general commemorates his radicals and often controversial works.

his career was running in 1966 with the premiere of Peter Handke's “public insult” at the Frankfurt Theater am Turm. Peymann was considered a tireless pioneer who kept causing a stir with his work. So he took over his first acting directorate in Stuttgart in 1974 before working at the Schauspielhaus Bochum between 1979 and 1986 and then until 1999 at the Vienna Burgtheater. His staging of Thomas Bernhard's "Heldenplatz" in 1988, which was celebrated as a century event, is particularly remembered.

an unshakable theater maker

Peymann was not only a master of the staging, but also for his direct appearance and his strict directorate. He had a fine feeling for great talents and discovered numerous important actors during his time. In addition to Gert Voss, Ignaz Kirchner was one of his tight familiar. These personal connections made him the center of his theater. Der SPIEGEL Peymann active and committed to the end.

his life's work is recognized as inexhaustible and innovative. He knew how to challenge the audience with his productions and stimulate thinking. His ability to bring controversial issues of contemporary events to the stage was a trademark of his work. Despite controversial actions, such as a collection of donations for RAF terrorist Gudrun Ensslin, he remained a formative figure in theater.

an influence that remains

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