The Berliner Festspiele (Germany)

Since its inception in 1951, the Berliner Festspiele, the executive group for the carrying out of the Berlin Festival and the Berlin International Film Festival, has continued to introduce the high-quality arts of the world in all fields, especially music, drama, dance, literature, art, and films. Since 1965, the Festspiele has contributed to the introduction of the outstanding arts of Japan in Germany and the promotion of mutual understanding between Germany and Japan with a regular event focusing on Japan and other Japan-related activities every year.

Brief History
 As the Cold War increased in intensity, stress was placed upon the development of art throughout the world through the Berlin Festival, which was held in West Berlin, where it served as a cultural showcase of the West. During the 1960s, the Berlin Festival developed into a first-class arts festival that continues to introduce the high-level arts of the world. Since 1965, a main theme is chosen for each year, under which a broad variety of cultural programs are carried out. In 1967, the Berliner Festspiele was established as the administrative organization of the Berlin Festival. And aside from the Japan-focused events that were organized in 1981, 1985, 1987, 1993, and 1999-2000, numerous Japanese films have also been introduced in the Berlin International Film Festival. In 2001, the Berliner Festspiele built its own theatre and exhibition hall to further its activities. It presents two annual events, the Berlin Festival (every September since 1951) and the Berlin International Film Festival (also every year since 1951). Since 1971, it has simultaneously carried out such programs as the International Forum of Young Film, the Berlin Festival of Contemporary Music (held every other year up to 2000, and to be held every March from 2002), the Berlin Theatre Meeting (of German-language performances, held every May since 1963), the JazzFest Berlin (every November since 1964), the Berlin Lectures (every year since 1987), as well as concours for youth in theatre, music, and literature.

Major Activities