Radio play summer in Leipzig: Hope for funding and new opportunities!

Radio play summer in Leipzig: Hope for funding and new opportunities!

The radio play summer in Leipzig once again pulled out all the stops this year and brought many creative minds together. The popular festival, which is aimed at all people and families, took place at the Richard Wagner Grove on the banks of the Leipzig Elster. Gloe from MDR KULTUR summed up how important public funding is for such a cultural event. With an optimistic view of the future, the organizing team is already planning a smaller program for 2026, despite the challenges they face.

With a focus on inclusion, numerous program items were presented in sign language. Particularly noteworthy are the live radio plays, including a highlight with “Peterchens Mondfahrt”, which captivated the visitors. The Liquid Penguin Ensemble, known for winning the Günter Eich Prize, also performed. Musician Kai-Uwe Kohlschmidt presented his creative work about the band Sandow.

Creative competitions attract young talent

The international radio play competition, which is considered a platform for young talent, also took place as part of the festival. The submission deadline for the competition was extended to February 15, 2025 to give even more participants the opportunity to present their works. The competition is aimed at adult newcomers to radio plays with a maximum of three published pieces, as well as children and young people who want to implement their creative ideas.

• Hörspiele können in Deutsch oder Englisch sein und eine Länge von 3 bis 45 Minuten haben.
• Die Auswahl der besten Einsendungen wird im Juli 2025 auf dem Leipziger Hörspielsommer präsentiert.
• Erschaffen werden nicht-professionelle Produktionen, die eine spannende Vielfalt an Themen abdecken.

In addition, the competition includes a children's and youth category, which is open to young artists under 18 or mixed age groups. The winners have the chance to have their pieces broadcast by media and cultural partners. The competition not only offers a stage, but also a valuable network for creative exchange on the competition weekend.

A look outside the box

The interest in radio plays is not only evident in Leipzig. The 16th Berlin Radio Play Festival will take place from September 18th to 21st, 2025, with the motto “FRIKTIONS” drawing attention to exciting topics between fiction and reality. Not only are experiments carried out here, but a workshop for blind people is also offered. Such initiatives make it clear how diverse the radio play genre is and how important it is to break down barriers.

The Berlin festival also attracts with diversity and innovation and shows that the passion for radio plays connects across city boundaries. It's an encouraging time for creative minds, with numerous events and competitions creating space for new ideas and perspectives.

The radio play summer in Leipzig not only sent a powerful cultural message, but also opened new doors for the future of radio play art. With solidarity support and creative energy, it will be exciting to watch how this vibrant scene develops.