What does it mean to curate a festival today?
What does it mean to create spaces for dance, encounters and visions – in a world that is falling apart in so many places?

I founded the Frei Art Festival to create a place that thinks freely, acts freely, and dances freely.
A place that is not just a stage, but a space for movement: for artistic expression, for political independence, for cultural cooperation beyond borders and attributions.

This edition is special.
Not because it is bigger or more glamorous – but because it is fed by the power of togetherness.
We received over 150 international submissions for the Choreographers Summit. Artists, curators, and institutions from over a dozen countries contributed ideas, helped, and supported the project.
That cannot be taken for granted – especially not in times like these.

While culture is being cut, restricted or put under economic pressure in many places, we believe in the value of open space.
We believe that a vibrant cultural ecosystem emerges precisely when we remain courageous, organize agilely, and think in solidarity.
That the future is not created by control, but by trust. Through open structures, open hearts, and open bodies.

But freedom also means responsibility.
Culture is not a decoration. It is a fundamental breeding ground for any healthy society—and especially for the younger generation.
That is why we strive to build bridges to youth culture and cultural education in every format.
We do not see professional artists and performers as separate from educational processes – but as living drivers of social development.

The stage is not an elitist podium, but a resonance chamber for questions, dreams and collective visions of the future.
We want to share this stage – with young people, with schools, with communities.
Because cultural education is not a minor matter; it is a task. A task for society—and for politics.
That's why we say clearly: Don't look away. Get involved!

I would like to thank all partners and artists who are walking this path with us – with curiosity, with attitude, with heart.
For me, your commitment is the greatest sign that we must not give up – and that it is worth starting again and again.
Beyond political lines, along artistic integrity, supported by a common idea:

We continue.
We open up spaces.
We make culture possible.

Chantal Kohlmeyer
Frei Art Festival / Studio Pro Arte