Rötzer's upheaval: a third of the Josefstadt ensemble is on the brink!

Rötzer's upheaval: a third of the Josefstadt ensemble is on the brink!

Marie Rötzer will take over the artistic direction of the Theater in der Josefstadt in autumn 2026, subject to confirmation by the foundation board. She follows Herbert Föttinger, who sparked numerous controversies last season, particularly through allegations of “sexual or structural violence,” which were documented in the final report by the Dorda law firm. This report criticizes the “structural failure” of the theater management in dealing with grievances and describes a poor working atmosphere under Föttinger’s management. Rötzer plans to no longer employ around a third of the ensemble members, specifically 18 of the current 48. This decision has already caused debate.

Of the 18 non-renewals, 16 have already been confirmed; There could be new contracts for two actors, depending on successful negotiations. Among the discontinued contracts are four actors of retirement age, including Michael König and Marianne Nentwich, who will receive guest contracts. For the remaining 28 ensemble members, there remains hope for continuity and a new direction under Rötzer's leadership.

Planned changes and structural adjustments

The future composition of the ensemble is still unclear, but Rötzer emphasized that social aspects should be taken into account, which was discussed in a conversation with the works council. Budget planning and inflation will also play an important role in carefully organizing staff positions. Some positions will not be filled due to a previous structural reform that reduced the number of performances from 800 to 550. Rötzer strives for a balanced relationship between ensemble, roles and performances.

The report's recommendations are aimed at a cultural change that will be implemented under Rötzer's new leadership. Future productions should include a code of conduct and confidants and hold regular reflection sessions. The foundation board will also upgrade the next directorate and grant power of attorney to the next commercial director.

Föttinger's controversies and Rötzer's support for change

Herbert Föttinger, who has always denied the allegations against him, expressed his wish for clarification in court. He describes his behavior as not aggressive and emphasizes that in his 19 years as director he has never noticed such serious allegations. Still, he admits there may have been injuries over the years that are unfortunate.

Rötzer has already announced that the Theater in der Josefstadt will remain a distinctive actors' theater. Some changes in the personnel structure are inevitable, and the desired cultural change could make a decisive contribution to improving the working atmosphere in the theater. The artistic direction will announce its schedule for the opening season in one year at the latest.

In a broader context, it can be seen that human resources management is becoming increasingly important in the cultural sector, as stated in the literature on “culture and media management”. The realization that good human resources management is crucial for company success could play a groundbreaking role for the Theater in der Josefstadt.