Chemnitz is European Capital of Culture in 2025. Part of its cultural programme is PURPLE PATH, an art and sculpture trail that will showcase works by renowned international, national and Saxon artists. The result is an exhibition in public space which includes pieces from Tony Cragg, Richard Long and Sean Scully.
Louise Brown, born in London in 1975, moved to northern Germany with her family as a teenager. She studied political science and is a journalist. In her book “What Remains When We Die,” she talks about her experiences as a funeral speaker. She will read from her book and have a conversation with Nikolaus Schneider.
The British composer Benjamin Britten (1913-76), a staunch pacifist, wrote the War Requiem after the construction of the St. Michael Cathedral in Coventry in World War II as a warning and accusation for the reopening of the cathedral in 1962. The Lewisham Choral Society, London, will be part of the impressive musical ensemble. Tickets are available here.
Festival EIGHT BRIDGES: Musik for Cologne will present on 18 May 2025 “The Oddity Effect”, a new work by British composer Christian Mason and poet Paul Griffiths at the prestigious Kölner Philharmonie. The concert will be immediately following the world premiere in Frankfurt on 16 May, both performed by one of Germany’s most renowned ensembles for contemporary music: Ensemble Modern.
A lively weekend of Irish music, dance, and literature. Opening with Madraí (Liam Blaney & Chris Cronin), the festival features award-winning musicians Laoise Kelly and Tola Custy, champion dancers, and readings from Irish Diary. Highlights include The Four Fellas, Jigs and Reels Dance Academy, and a rousing finale by Murphy’s Law. Tickets here.
Lucy Woodward is a powerhouse singer whose soulful, impeccably controlled vocals will turn on a dime, from a runaway-train full-throttle intensity to a soft, slow burning sultry whisper, only to take you back into an inferno. Born in London, Lucy spent her childhood in New York and the Netherlands. She is the daughter of two classical musicians – her father a conductor and composer, and her mother an opera singer, musicologist, teacher, and belly dancer.
Rumour has it Nick Woodland once turned down the Rolling Stones. Whether true or not, he's hailed by the Süddeutsche Zeitung as “the most relaxed, best and most versatile rhythm and blues guitarist far and wide.” A studio collaborator with legends like Boney M., Donna Summer and The Clash, Woodland is now touring Germany—with stops in Fürth, Munich and more. Tour dates here.
John Akomfrah’s The Unfinished Conversation (2012) is a poignant tribute to cultural theorist Stuart Hall, exploring his idea that identity is fluid and ever-evolving. Across three screens, Akomfrah weaves archival footage with historic moments, creating a rich visual and audio tapestry. The result is a powerful reflection on how we understand ourselves and others. More info here.
Gaia is a stunning touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram. Measuring seven metres in diameter and featuring detailed NASA imagery, it offers a breathtaking 3D view of Earth. Inspired by the “Overview Effect” experienced by astronauts, Gaia invites reflection on our planet’s beauty, fragility, and interconnectedness. Accompanied by a surround sound composition by BAFTA-winner Dan Jones, the slowly rotating sculpture creates an immersive and moving experience.
From the creators of the hit exhibition The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind, which has attracted over 2.5 million visitors across 24 cities and seven countries, comes a bold new concept: House of Banksy – An Unauthorized Exhibition. Featuring more than 150 iconic works, it’s one of the most comprehensive presentations of Banksy's art in Europe to date. House of Banksy opens in Leipzig at the end of March 2025. More info here.