The Volksbühne Theatre in Berlin, Germany, is currently in mourning, remembering its artistic director, René Pollesch, who tragically and unexpectedly passed away. As a fitting tribute to the late director, a large banner with the name ‘Pollesch’ emblazoned in capital letters has been hung above the theatre’s entrance portal, right above the building’s signage. The shocking news of Pollesch’s sudden demise came on Monday, as he was merely 61 years old at the time of his death.
The news of Pollesch’s passing has drawn numerous reactions from the theatre and cultural scene, both locally and internationally. However, by Wednesday, there was yet to be any official information regarding a potential funeral service, including its timing and location, from the Volksbühne Theatre itself.
René Pollesch, who was born in Friedberg, Hesse, Germany in 1962, is best remembered for his contributions to theatre as a playwright and director. Pollesch rejoined the Volksbühne Theatre as director in 2021, already well-versed with the theatre’s workings and culture, having worked there for many years. He took over the reins of the theatre after its director of 25 years, Frank Castorf, left amidst protests against his successor, the Belgian Chris Dercon. Dercon’s tenure was short-lived due to the opposition, leading to an interim solution with Klaus Dörr. It was after this that Pollesch assumed the directorial role, a position he had been acquainted with during his previous tenure under Castorf.
