We were very pleased by the positive response from the Independent Dance and Theatre Scene of Stuttgart to the initial presentation of the Decentralized Venue Model. Therefore, we would like the further coordination process with the Solidarity Community of Stuttgart Theatres and other partner institutions that have contacted us to be accompanied by a focus group from the Independent Scene.

We are looking for five individuals who are artistically and/or organizationally active in the Independent Dance and Theatre Scene Stuttgart and wish to contribute their perspectives to the further development process.

The focus group supports and accompanies the ongoing process and provides feedback on the model. Two meetings are planned for September 2026. Depending on the availability of participants, a short kick-off meeting in August 2026 may also take place. Participation is straightforward: there will be no further time commitment beyond this.

Please register by July 31, 2026 via email to info@ftts-stuttgart.de.

We look forward to a diverse focus group and a productive exchange.

Background and Vision

The Independent Dance and Theatre Scene Stuttgart gUG (FTTS for short) is currently developing a new cooperative model of solidarity, together with the Solidarity Community of Stuttgart Theatres (SST for short) and other venues that have contacted FTTS gUG. The aim is to open up additional performance opportunities for project-funded productions of the Independent Dance and Theatre Scene from the 2027 season onwards, thereby contributing to solving the existing space problem.

A central venue has been a common cultural policy goal of Stuttgart’s Independent Performing Arts Scene for many years. Since such a space is currently lacking, we understand the “Decentralized Venue” as a solidarity-based transitional and development model. It does not replace existing venues but connects existing locations into a network. The combination and joint promotion of all decentralized activities supported by FTTS gUG is an important instrument to sustainably strengthen the visibility of the entire Independent Scene.

The model explicitly understands itself not as a concentration of the Independent Scene on Stuttgart’s theatre houses. Rather, the offerings of the participating houses are intended to meaningfully expand the existing pool of venues with professional infrastructure. All other performance venues – whether classical theatres, alternative venues, or productions in public spaces – are an equal part of the model. The Independent Scene has always worked decentrally. Precisely this decentralized structure should be made visible and strengthened: all project-funded productions will be jointly promoted, regardless of their performance location, and communicated as part of a common decentralized venue structure of the Independent Dance and Theatre Scene of Stuttgart. The pool of venues can grow in perspective and should be cataloged.