Festival Tanz in den August 2025 Turns Berlin into a Global Stage for Contemporary Dance

From August 13 to 30, 2025, Berlin becomes the beating heart of international contemporary dance. The Festival Tanz in den August presents a bold and diverse program of choreography, performance, and movement art across ten of the city’s most iconic venues. As Germany’s largest contemporary dance festival, it offers world premieres, German debuts, and groundbreaking guest performances from artists around the world.

World-Class Dance from All Corners of the Globe

Since 1988, the festival has pushed boundaries in dance and performance. What began as a local initiative is now a major international event. Whether in renowned venues like HAU Hebbel am Ufer or experimental spaces like Alte Münze, the 2025 edition offers 20 productions from over a dozen countries.

What Awaits You at Tanz in den August 2025?

A Program That Reflects the World

• 20 productions on 10 Berlin stages
• 3 world premieres and 10 German premieres
• Artists from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Latin America
• Themes ranging from feminism and politics to interdisciplinary art
• Open rehearsals, artist talks, and film nights
• A new festival library with dance theory, aesthetics, and performance studies

Venues across Berlin include:

• HAU1, HAU2, HAU3—Known for radical international productions
• Radialsystem—Large-scale works by the Spree
• Alte Münze—Industrial charm meets experimental dance
• Sophiensæle—Home to feminist and political choreography
• Haus der Berliner Festspiele and Tempelhofer Feld—Icons of Berlin’s diverse cultural landscape

Festival Atmosphere: Dance Meets Community

The festival is more than a series of performances—it’s a space for dialogue, participation, and shared inspiration. Visitors engage in workshops, panel discussions, and post-show talks and can explore the digital festival archive.

A New Highlight: The August Library

In 2025, the festival introduces a pop-up reading room focusing on critical theory and body politics. It’s the perfect place to pause, reflect, and engage with dance beyond the stage.

A Festival with History and Vision

Founded in 1988 by Nele Hertling, the festival was created to make space for new forms of dance. Today, Tanz in den August is a mirror of current global discourse, where movement becomes a tool for expressing political and social realities.

Retrospectives Every Two Years

Every two years, a prominent dance artist is honored with a retrospective. In 2025, the name is still under wraps—but expect an inspiring look back at decades of groundbreaking work.

A Cultural Must for Berliners and Visitors Alike

Whether you’re a dance professional, an art lover, or just curious, this is a cultural highlight of Berlin’s summer. Tickets sell out quickly—especially for premieres—so booking early is essential.

Accessibility and Inclusion

The festival places strong emphasis on inclusion and accessibility. Many venues offer wheelchair access, relaxed performances, audio description, and English surtitles.

Berlin Bonus Tip: Explore the Kulturforum

Before or after your performance, take time to visit the Kulturforum Berlin, where you’ll find the Gemäldegalerie, the Musical Instrument Museum, and the Berlin Philharmonic all nearby. Or book a street art tour via GetYourGuide and experience Berlin’s performance spirit beyond the stage.

Visitor Information at a Glance

What:Tanz in den August 2025
When: August 13 to 30, 2025
Where: Various locations across Berlin
Tickets: Prices vary depending on the event