New wind in the Josefstadt theater: Rötzer separates from 18 stars!

New wind in the Josefstadt theater: Rötzer separates from 18 stars!

On June 25, 2025, the Theater in Josefstadt faces a profound change: Marie Rötzer will be the new head of the house from the 2026/27 season. The changes are comprehensive, because Rötzer has decided not to extend the contracts of 18 of the 48 ensemble members, which corresponds to a drastic reduction of 40 percent. Among those affected are also prominent names such as the Doyenne of the House, Marianne Nentwich, Michael König and Sandra Cervik, the wife of the outgoing director Herbert Föttinger.

Rötzer, which is adjusted to a dignified and conflict -free transition with Föttinger, emphasizes that the university of performing art will be the focus of its artistic vision. "It is not always easy to design this transition," said the future director. She plans to keep the "all public favorites" in the ensemble and integrate new additions to make future productions exciting and varied.

new wind in the theater

With a view to the artistic future of the theater, Rötzer already announces numerous productions to inspire the audience. The game plan includes the Hitler Grotesque "Schicklgruber", a "Summer Night's Dream" and a sway around Sherlock Holmes. In addition, the solo "a German life" with Lore Stefanek and the chamber game "The Dance Lesses" with André Pohl and Katharina are clear.

The decision to reduce the ensemble members is also fueled by the owner side of the theater, which after 20 years under Föttinger wishes "repositioning and sorting". These changes and savings have been in the room for some time and were already initiated during Föttinger's directorate, the suspension of double ideas on weekends.

A look into the future

While many actors were underemployed in the savings, the reduction should also serve to create a balance in the height and ensemble policy. The works council has always taken care of the social issues of those affected, which promises an integrative approach.

Rötzer is aware of the challenges that these restructuring bring. Guest contracts are not only offered for the departing members, such as Marianne Nentwich, but also for other family members of the ensemble. Föttinger and Cervik can be welcomed as acting guests if they wish. This desire for a respectful and conflict -free transition reflects Rötzer's clear attitude to keep Josefstadt as a place of cultural exchange and artistic development.