Piccolo Theater Cottbus starts the new season with thrilling pieces!

Piccolo Theater Cottbus starts the new season with thrilling pieces!

The Piccolo Theater in Cottbus is starting the new 2025/2026 season full of energy. With 25 dance and theater groups on board, a varied program is offered that not only focuses on the classical pieces, but also delves deeply into the history of the region. A highlight is the documentary theater piece “Mako 75”, which deals with the tragic events surrounding the crash of a MiG-21 in 1975.

The dramatic incident occurred during a routine flight on January 14, 1975, when the military aircraft crashed into a prefabricated building on Schmellwitzer Strasse. In this accident, the pilot Major Peter Makowicka and six civilians, all of whom were employees of the Cottbus Textile Combine, were killed. The exact circumstances of the crash remained secret for a long time, and the destroyed building reminded the people of Cottbus three decades later of the catastrophe, which is considered the worst accident involving an NVA military aircraft. Wikipedia reports that the pilot attempted to steer the aircraft over a built-up area after an engine failure occurred.

A moving piece of history

“Mako 75” not only sheds light on the events of the crash, but also addresses the many people affected. Co-author Daniel Rattei conducted conversations with contemporary witnesses, including military personnel, in order to offer an authentic and multi-layered perspective. The premiere of the piece will take place on September 13th exclusively for invited guests, while the public performance will follow on the following Sunday. With this piece, the Piccolo Theater celebrates the power of theater to keep memories and feelings alive, rbb24 emphasizes in its report.

It is interesting that reporting on the crash and its victims was largely suppressed by the state media in the GDR for decades. Only after reunification did many details come to light. Apparently there were also legal consequences for those responsible after an incorrectly attached maintenance flap was identified as the cause of the engine failure.

A look into the future

Intendant Reinhard Drogla, who founded the Piccolo Theater as an independent group 35 years ago, announced very special celebrations for 2026. The theater will then celebrate its anniversary with the premiere of the puppet show “The Emperor's New Clothes” and an exhibition of theater posters. Another piece that will be staged is “Frau Holle”. The Piccolo Theater has now established itself as an integral part of the country's theater financing agreement and offers the citizens of Cottbus a wonderful opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of performances.

In this way, the Piccolo Theater not only shows its artistic range, but also remains closely connected to the history of the region. The theater is not only a place for entertainment, but also an important forum for social issues and memories.