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 Josefstadt in autumn 2026, subject to confirmation by the board of trustees. She follows Herbert Föttinger, who triggered numerous controversy last season, in particular through allegations of "sexual or structural violence", which were documented in the final report of the Dorda law firm. This report criticizes the "structural failure" of the theater management in dealing with grievances and describes a bad working atmosphere under Föttinger's management. Rötzer does not plan around a third of the ensemble members, specifically 18 out of currently 48. This decision has already caused discussions.

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

planned changes and structural adjustments

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

The recommendations of the report aim at a cultural change that is to be implemented under Rötzer's new management. Future productions should include a code of conduct and confidants and hold regular reflection meetings. The board of trustees will also enhance the next management and issue the upcoming commercial managing director procuration.

Föttinger's controversy and Rötzer's support for changes

Herbert Föttinger, who has always denied the allegations against himself, expresses the desire for judicial clarification. He describes his behavior as not attacking and emphasizes that in 19 years he had never perceived such serious allegations as a director. Nevertheless, he admits that there may have been injuries over the years.

Rötzer has already announced that the theater in Josefstadt will remain an unmistakable acting 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 management will announce its schedule for the opening season at the latest in one year.

In a broader context, it can be seen that personnel management in the cultural sector is becoming increasingly important, as is listed in literature on “cultural and media management”. The realization that good personnel management is crucial for the company's success could play a pioneering role for the theater in Josefstadt.