General Director of Theater Bremen, Michael Börgerding, has Died, Aged 64

Börgerding, who was described by colleagues as "a great humanist," had led the institution since 2012

Michael Börgerding, who was the General Director of Theater Bremen, has passed away at the age of 64 following an illness.

Born in Lohne, Lower Saxony in 1960, Börgerding studied German language and literature, sociology, and philosophy at the University of Göttingen. He then embarked on a career as a dramaturg, working at the Junge Theater Göttingen, the Niedersächsisches Staatstheater Hannover, and then as Chief Dramaturg of the Thalia Theater Hamburg.

He also worked as an academic, holding teaching positions at the Universities of Hannover and Hamburg. In 2005, Börgerding moved into a management capacity, becoming director of the Theaterakademie Hamburg at the University of Music and Theatre. He stayed in this position until 2012 when he was appointed General Director of Theater Bremen.

In a statement, the Theater Bremen noted that Börgerding was held in high esteem by his colleagues in the theater, and was highly valued as an "approaching director, a deeply lovable person, [and] a great humanist."

Our condolences to Börgerding's family, friends, and colleagues.

"Michael Börgerding was a boss on an equal footing and has always taken the people seriously in their actions and with their commitment," said Swantje Markus, Managing Director of Theater Bremen. "He has promoted the house with prudence, even after twelve years of directorship, continuously following new ideas, such as the performance of Goetheplatz, and continuously promoting world premieres in all sectors."

"All employees are deeply shocked and will miss him very much. I will very much lack the exchange with him, his wisdom and his infinitely great heart."