Dance of hope in Hanover: Between crisis and new possibilities!

Dance of hope in Hanover: Between crisis and new possibilities!

Hope in moving images: The dance performance “here ≠ there” is being performed today in Hanover. On the occasion of this special event, the production, led by two performers, addresses the question of where hope can grow in a world in crisis. Inspired by the philosophy of Byung-Chul Hans, which is discussed in detail in his work “The Spirit of Hope”, the performance offers a space for reflection and shared experience.

The artistic performance relies on a fascinating interplay of body, closeness and distance. Viewers are invited to lose themselves in a concept that does not provide easy answers, but rather raises questions. Hope is portrayed as a moving force that leaves its mark in the here and now. With musical and lighting elements, the performance becomes an experience that oscillates between the themes of heaviness and lightness, searching and longing.

A philosophy of hope

In his book, Byung-Chul Han, a well-known philosopher, looks at the current social situation, which is characterized by fears and apocalyptic scenarios: pandemic challenges and the impending climate catastrophe. These concerns push many people into a state of pessimism, as an ETH survey on “Security 2024” shows, in which 82% of Swiss are pessimistic about the global situation in the coming years. Han warns that such fears limit freedom and lead to social erosion, while solidarity, kindness and empathy are threatened. He also addresses the fact that without hope no profound changes are possible.

In The Spirit of Hope, Han argues that hope is an active search that goes beyond blind optimism. It conveys a kind of state of mind that can be cultivated regardless of external circumstances. His work, illustrated by Anselm Kiefer, is a response to the current time of crisis and a call for reflection and discussion about our future.

Invitation to a reflective encounter

The dance performance “here ≠ there” offers more than just entertainment: it invites the audience to explore new spaces of possibility and explore fragile confidence. With the combination of dance expressiveness and philosophical depth, the production takes the audience on a journey that is shaped by the question: How can we find hope in times of uncertainty and break new ground together?

Whether you want to be part of this experience yourself or just value the exchange about these complex topics - “here ≠ there” is a good place to share thoughts about hope and fear and perhaps also to find a better way to deal with them.

For more information about the performance, visit [Hannover.de](https://www.hannover.de/ Veranstaltungskalender/B%C3%BChnen/Tanzperformance-here-%E2%89%A0-there) and to delve into Byung-Chul Han's thoughts, take a look at the book “The Spirit of Hope” at Ullstein Publisher. The NZZ also offers interesting perspectives on Han's philosophy.