This September, the Palace of Science will be one of the venues hosting the second edition of the ne:BITEF festival, which marks the 60th anniversary of the first BITEF. On this occasion we will present the work of internationally acclaimed artists Heiner Goebbels and Suzanne Osten. Through their exploration of the connections between technology, developmental psychology, and art, both have left a significant mark on the local theatre scene. The two-part programme, titled “How Do We Explore the World Around Us?”, will focus on their award-winning productions Stifters Dinge and Baby Drama.
On 20 September, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., two micro-stages will alternate in the Horizon Hall at the Palace of Science.
Micro-stage: Heiner Goebbels – The Machine as a Performer
“The Machine as a Performer” explores the relationship between technology and art, machines and society, music and philosophical reflection through sound, pianos, and objects. The programme will feature a recording of excerpts from the performance Stifters Dinge, as well as a conversation with Heiner Goebbels, one of the most prominent composers and theatre directors of our time.
The conversation with the artist will be moderated by Dr Aleksandar Brkić, Professor at Goldsmiths, University of London, and will give the audience an opportunity to reflect on Goebbels’ connection with the BITEF festival.
Micro-stage: Suzanne Osten – The Child as a Spectator
Suzanne Osten, one of Sweden’s leading theatre directors, focuses her work on political and feminist theatre for children and young people. At the heart of her practice is the idea that children are not merely “future audiences”, but equal spectators who should be offered complex artistic content that encourages cognitive development and social intelligence. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience this approach through excerpts from Baby Drama, which will be presented at the Palace of Science.
Through interviews recorded especially for this occasion, Damjan Kecojević, actor, choreographer, movement and theatre director, will explore the influence of the BITEF tradition on his work. Marko Pejović, psychologist, psychoanalytic psychotherapist, art theorist, and theatre practitioner, will discuss the developmental and psychological aspects of theatre for young children.
Visitors to this year’s ne:BITEF will be free to explore the festival across 60 locations and, in doing so, create their own unique theatre experience. Make the Palace of Science one of your stops!
Admission is free, and no registration is required.