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A new wind in the Josefstadt Theater: Rötzer parts ways with 18 stars!
Marie Rötzer will take over the Theater in der Josefstadt from 2026/27 and announces changes to the ensemble, including the non-renewal of 18 members.
A new wind in the Josefstadt Theater: Rötzer parts ways with 18 stars!
On June 25, 2025, the Theater in der Josefstadt will face a profound change: Marie Rötzer will be the new boss of the house from the 2026/27 season. The changes are comprehensive, as 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 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, who is preparing for a dignified and conflict-free transition with Föttinger, emphasizes that the University of Performing Arts will be at the center of her artistic vision. “It’s not always easy to make this transition,” said the future director. She plans to keep “all the audience favorites” in the ensemble and integrate new additions in order to make future productions exciting and varied.
A new wind in the theater
With a view to the theater's artistic future, Rötzer has already announced numerous productions that are intended to delight the audience. The program includes, among other things, the Hitler grotesque “Schicklgruber”, a “Midsummer Night's Dream” and a story about Sherlock Holmes. The solo “A German Life” with Lore Stefanek and the chamber play “The Dance Lesson” with André Pohl and Katharina Klar are also in preparation.
The decision to reduce the number of ensemble members is also being fueled by the theater's owners, who want a “repositioning and sorting” after 20 years under Föttinger. These changes and savings had been in the air for some time and were already initiated during Föttinger's directorship by suspending double performances on weekends.
A look into the future
While many actors were underemployed during the savings, the reduction is also intended to create a balance in salary levels and ensemble politics. The works council has always taken care of the social concerns of those affected, which promises an integrative approach.
Rötzer is aware of the challenges that these restructurings bring with them. Guest contracts are offered not only 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 stance on maintaining Josefstadt as a place of cultural exchange and artistic development.
In summary, the Theater in der Josefstadt is facing exciting, albeit challenging, times. Whatever the next steps bring, one thing is clear: the artistic direction under Marie Rötzer will provide fresh impetus and usher in a new era. Let’s stay tuned for developments!