Dance and memory: Perform[d]ance illuminates the Nazi past

Dance and memory: Perform[d]ance illuminates the Nazi past

What motivates young people in Stralsund? An exciting dance theater project from the youth company Perform[d]ance deals with a very serious topic: the culture of remembrance in Germany. Under the title “Search for a culture of remembrance in motion,” the production takes a sensitive look at the responsibility of dealing with the Nazi era, especially at a time when contemporary witnesses have become rare. The premiere took place on July 4, 2025 in the Old Iron Foundry in Stralsund and was accompanied by a lively audience discussion in which the audience was able to delve into the background of the performance.

The next performance of the piece is today, July 5th, at 7:30 p.m., before continuing on the following days, July 6th and 8th and July 9th. These performances are complemented by an interesting mix of 1940s swing and ballroom, which, together with haunting choreographic images of violence and humanity, creates an impressive spectacle. Further performances will follow, including on July 11th and 12th.

Changing culture of remembrance

Dealing with history has long been an issue in Germany. The German culture of remembrance has been described in part as a culture of repression. After the Second World War, society in the Bonn Republic did not want to know anything about its own crimes. The GDR also rejected any responsibility for the atrocities of National Socialism. However, this changed with the student movement of the 1960s, which broke the silence and called on society to deal with the past. This turn of events has meant that responsibility and remembering are now part of the raison d'être. The Remembrance, Responsibility and Future Foundation (EVZ) plays a crucial role here by supporting projects that encourage reflection on police history and thus make a significant contribution to the culture of remembrance.

Memorials, memorials and school work are key to understanding and passing on history. Schools today function as important places for dealing with the Nazi past. At the same time, the documentation of the stories of Nazi victims and forced laborers will continue to be promoted in order to provide a more comprehensive picture of the dark chapters of German history.

Remembrance and the challenges of the past

However, remembering the crimes of the Nazi regime remains a constant challenge. Especially in a migration society like Germany, it is becoming increasingly important to include the perspectives and stories of different victim groups. Historical commemoration days, such as International Holocaust Remembrance Day on January 27th, bring the importance of remembering into society's consciousness. There are also critical discussions about the design of monuments, which, like the “Citizens on the Move” monument, are repeatedly tested by political and financial hurdles.

The question remains as to how these memories of minorities and often overlooked groups - such as Jehovah's Witnesses or other "anti-social people" in the NS Park - can be integrated into today's culture of remembrance. Wolfgang Benz, a prominent historian, plans to publish further food for thought on the future of memory in spring 2025 to stimulate public discussion.

The dance production by Perform[d]ance not only offers entertainment, but also an impetus to think about these important social issues. The combination of movement and music from the time of Nazi rule forces us not to forget the dark sides of history and at the same time to look for ways to promote an inclusive and diverse culture of remembrance. Don't miss the chance to learn more about this important piece and perhaps even become part of the discussion yourself!