Theater crisis in Plauen: Ex-director Roland May sounds the alarm!
Roland May, former director of the Plauen-Zwickau Theater, expresses concern about current theater problems on July 4, 2025.

Theater crisis in Plauen: Ex-director Roland May sounds the alarm!
In the last few days there have been tensions in the theater landscape of Plauen and Zwickau that have not gone unnoticed. Roland May, the former general director of the Plauen-Zwickau Theater, expresses concern about current developments. May, who led the theater from 2009 to 2022, enjoys a reputation as a critical observer of the theater world and as someone passionate about the arts and their challenges. Free press reports that he continues to organize and stage events at the Plauen Schloßberg.
Roland May, born in 1955, has an impressive career in theater that began in the 1980s at the Dresden State Theater. In 1987 he directed the play “Farewell Judas” and played the role of Pozzo in the first performance of Samuel Beckett’s “Waiting for Godot” in the GDR. This production is considered historically significant, and the collaboration with other prominent actors such as Peter Kube and Tom Pauls shows May's creative skills. Wikipedia emphasizes that Roland May has a good knack for remarkable productions and that his commitment in Plauen and Zwickau has left a lasting mark.
Theater criticism and social issues
In his current reflections, May addresses injustices in the theater world and draws parallels to the classic works of Shakespeare. The discussion about the value of theater in today's society is initiated by his critical observations. “Similar to the classic plays, the big questions of humanity are brought to the stage today,” says May.
Interestingly, theater is not only May's passion, but also a place where he deals with the crucial questions of the time. His seven-hour performances are not just events, but rather cultural experiences that make the audience think. Theater history shows that such initiatives enrich the theatrical landscape and stimulate debate.
A look into the future
The Cologne theater community and the audience can be excited to see what Roland May will accomplish with his future projects at the Plauener Schloßberg. His commitment and his lively productions will continue to hold a place in the hearts of theater lovers. The celebration of art and the critical examination of social issues will remain central to his work in the future.
For everyone who wants to follow developments in the theater landscape, it will be exciting to see how the situation around Plauen and Zwickau will develop, especially under the watchful eye of Roland May.