Demokratische Leibesübungen – eine geturnte Choreographie

The project ‘Democratic Physical Exercise – a Gymnastic Choreography’ ties in with Hanau's role as a key historical location in the German democracy movement. The gymnastics movement was very strong here – a movement that combined physical training with the pursuit of unity, freedom and democracy. Gymnasts played an important role in the revolution of 1848/49 and shaped the democratic self-image. Hanau was not only the founding place of the Gymnastics Federation, but is also a central location in the history of democracy.

We take up this historical reference artistically: choreography, choir, play and speech become a ‘gymnastic choreography’ that focuses on collective bodies and makes democratic communication tangible. A professional choreographer and an artistic director for the choirs develop the artistic form together with local associations and amateur theatre groups.

Schools and choirs from the region are actively involved. The result is an interplay of movement, song and speech that links the ideals of 1848 with today's questions of participation, trust and community.

The performances are expected to take place in a gymnasium or sports hall in Hanau in order to make the experience as authentic as possible and to bring the historical origins to life. The aim is to create a lively celebration of democracy that combines art, sport and citizenship and addresses questions of democracy today.

The initiator is Passionsspiele der Demokratie gUG, based in Frankfurt. It develops participatory theatre projects on democracy at locations of democratic historical significance. Artistic means are used to highlight social processes and actively involve citizens in the creative process.