Stages of Ageing – the discourse programme of the Coming of Age festival takes a look at those needs in old age, that have so far been neglected in our society and in the structures of the independent theatre scene. In three talks, actors from the Berlin and national independent scene will discuss the following questions:

What could generational justice look like within the dance and performance scene, and how could resources such as labor, money, spaces, and attention be distributed more equitably? How can the desire for sustainability be balanced with the pressure to always present something new? What would be generationally appropriate funding between innovation and continuity? What about the handling and value of a so-called oeuvre and many years of artistic experience? What kind of appreciation is desirable for the lifelong work as an artist? What about the relationship of competition and mutual inspiration between old and young and the “stigma of age” as an invisible criterion in both the eligibility for funding and the selection of programs? Innovation over 50 years of age – is it possible, is there such a thing? How do groups and companies organize their intergenerational transitions and what are some best-practice examples?

Stages of Ageing I is a discussion on the topic of ageing and intergenerational justice in the Berlin independent scene as well as a presentation of a position paper by the AG Konzeptgeförderte Gruppen for the interests of artists and groups working in Berlin for many years.