State of the nation – a pre-party with Heiner Müller on the eve of the catastrophe

For Müller's spirit and foresight are sorely missed today. Even with the end of the Cold War, which was supposed to coincide with the end of history, Müller saw us embarking on "the path of acceleration that ends in annihilation." The future Müller spoke of back then is our present. A present of multiple crises, in which catastrophe is palpable, which we either witness chattering or speechless, or, as Müller would say, trapped in "programmed loops of meaning."


In the historical upheaval of 1989 and 1990, the dramaturg and publicist Frank Raddatz engaged in conversations with the playwright Heiner Müller: about the resurgence of capitalism, the future of Europe, the climate (the ozone hole), world revolution, and the scenario of a possible annihilation of humanity. From today's perspective, the texts seem prophetic.

In the Red Salon, they serve as a medium to bring oneself back into conversation; with the deceased Heiner Müller. And with all the dead, from whose experiences we should learn when the ghosts of the past press into our present. And with whom they can communicate about their situation. Into whom or what will the spirit of Heiner Müller enter?

The rules of this New Year's Eve summoning are remarkably simple:

Admission is free. Instead, drinks must be brought and shared; preferably whiskey, but wine is also acceptable.

Anyone who wishes can participate in the reading (from "Zur Lage der Nation" and "Jenseits der Nation"; conversations between Frank Raddatz and Heiner Müller) and speak at the microphone. Maximum 15 minutes.

Those who feel called to make their own original contribution can do so by prior arrangement.

Between the readings and microphone appearances, there will be music and time for toasts and conversation.

In addition, everyone is asked to light a firework and throw a firecracker in memory of Heiner Müller on Rosa-Luxemburg-Platz on December 31st. The louder the bang, the better.

An evening for all those who drink all year round anyway and who need a special excuse for it on New Year's Eve. (Freely adapted from Müller: "I am not a philosopher who doesn't need a reason to think.") And who can use Heiner Müller as an excuse for their hangover. Because "the journey isn't over when the destination explodes."