Based on the history and culture of the deaf community, Rita Mazza and Anne Zander dedicate themselves to new forms of art in sign language in a visual sign performance.

The Milan Congress of 1880 was a major turning point for the Deaf community: Hearing educators banned the use of sign language from European education and significantly devalued Deaf culture. It was not until 2002 that German Sign Language was recognized in Germany as a full-fledged language and thus on an equal footing with spoken and written language. Yet equal access to the arts in society is still virtually impossible for most deaf people - a gap that Space 1880 wants to draw attention to. Together, choreographer and performer Rita Mazza and actress Anne Zander are researching new forms of artistic expression that go beyond the existing - often male-dominated - forms of sign poetry and visual vernacular. In a specially created language of movement between sign language poetry, body language, dance and abstract improvisations, they thus encounter the pain of their deaf ancestors and explore forms of healing.

The piece lasts about 45-60 minutes. It is very visual and partly makes use of German Sign Language (DGS). However, the piece is also suitable for an audience without any knowledge of German Sign Language. In some moments the light situation is bright, in others rather dark with some flashy and surprising light effects. The performance uses a lot of heavy bass sounds and vibrations. Hearing protection will be provided at the entrance. The audience area on the grandstand is seated. There are two wheelchair spaces and one beanbag seat that can be reserved by phone or booked via the online ticket shop, if available. Accessibility information is updated on an ongoing basis. If you have any questions or need further information, please contact Gina Jeske at jeske@sophiensaele.com or 030 27 89 00 35.