Heidelberg Theater Prize 2026 awarded to Dresden and Cologne ensembles

The Heidelberg Theater Days 2026 concluded with the announcement of two winners for the Heidelberg Theater Prize. The jury awarded first place to both Cologne-based Ensemble Integral, for the production “Sprecht mit Euren Toten,” and Dresden-based Cie. Freaks & Fremde, for “Eisler – Lost in Hollywood.”

Ensemble Integral’s performance focuses on the fate of Russian Germans in the Soviet Union. Cie. Freaks & Fremde, which also received the audience award known as the Heidelberger Puck, utilized a blend of acting and puppetry to depict the life and career of composer Hanns Eisler.

Additionally, the student jury from the Pedagogical University selected the E3 Ensemble from Vienna as the winner of the Heidelberger Studentenkuss for their satire “Eine Ballettoper.” The event, held at the TiK – Theater im Karlstorbahnhof, featured eight finalists from the independent theater scene.