Thuringia hybrid: Artists break down clichés in Gera!

Thuringia hybrid: Artists break down clichés in Gera!

It's a busy day in Gera today! At the final presentation of the theater residency in the Häselburg, the focus is on the two scholarship holders Amelie Sabbagh and Nadja Sühnel. Since June 10, 2025, the two creative minds in the Häselburg have explored the region intensively and are now using their work to provide a fresh look at Thuringia. The aim is to break through the often clichéd view of the federal state through diverse perspectives. In their performances, which run under the motto “Thuringia hybrid”, this is exactly what becomes visible: Thuringia in its cultural diversity and dynamism.

Today's performance, which starts at 7 p.m., has a lot to offer. In addition to inspiring performances, there will also be dumpling variations and Thuringia karaoke. Admission is free, so anyone who is interested in Thuringia's cultural identity can feel addressed. [MDR] reports that the artists have not only explored traditions, but also want to set musical accents, with genres ranging from D-pop to traditional costume crafts to be heard.

The artists' research trip

In their research, Amelie Sabbagh and Nadja Sühnel examined the range of Thuringia. From the history of the textile industry, which comes to life through workshops in Erfurt, to research into cultural heritage – the artist duo leaves no detail unnoticed. For example, Sabbagh received a bouquet of paper flowers from the flower women in Eisenach, a symbol of the connection to the region. Sühnel, in turn, explored Gera's potential as a location for musicians. In doing so, the two of them question the common idea that Thuringia is provincial and isolated.

The theater residency has been organized by the Thuringian Theater Association since 2022 and has established itself as a platform on which interdisciplinary approaches and creative experiments find space. [Thüringer Theaterverband] emphasizes that these residencies address local phenomena and represent the diversity of the region.

Cultural events and community projects

However, the theater residence is only part of the lively cultural scene in Gera. The Friends of Refugees in Gera recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and Mayor Kurt Dannenberg praised the association's humanitarian efforts in this context. A reading festival also took place in the Häselburg, which delighted many visitors with contributions from Michaela Dazian and Katherin Gutierrez. All of these activities show that in Gera there is not only discussion but also celebration.

In addition, there was recently even a democracy rally “Good for Gera”, where classical concerts brought the population together. All of these events are an expression of the lively commitment of Gera's citizens to their city.

Tonight the artists Amelie Sabbagh and Nadja Sühnel are in the spotlight. Don't miss the opportunity to become part of a creative and interactive experience that showcases different facets of Thuringia! Who knows, maybe you'll discover the next big talent from the region at Thuringia Karaoke?