30.01.2010 - 30.01.2010, Berlin
Berlin’s museums are opening their doors to the onslaught of nocturnal visitors for the 26th time this year. With Berlin bearing the title “2010 Capital of Science”, the 60 participating museums will be demonstrating not only their exhibition but also their research capabilities. In addition to presentations of the institutions’ scientific work and research projects, the exhibitions will once again be complemented by guided tours, performances and a programme of musical and literary events – offerings that have traditionally given the Long Night its special feeling and atmosphere.
23.01.2010 - 23.01.2010, Meissen
The state-owned Meissen Porcelain Manufactory has been in existence since 1710. Following the invention of hard-paste porcelain, the Meissen works became Europe’s first and most important porcelain manufactory. Its “crossed swords” mark is the world’s oldest continuously used trademark. Even today, dinner services, figurines and accessories are exquisitely handcrafted in Meissen. To mark the anniversary, limited tercentenary editions will be on offer and there will be a commemorative event with a tempting array of culinary delicacies. The celebrations are to be officially opened on 23 January.
01.01.2010 - 31.12.2010, Hildesheim
One of history’s architectural gems is celebrating its 1,000th anniversary. In 1010, Bishop Bernward of Hildesheim began construction of the Romanesque church with its unique ceiling frescoes. The church was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985. After a five-year restoration, the church will present itself in new splendour in time for the opening of the ten-month programme of celebratory events. Church services, art, music and encounter events will reflect the chosen motto “God’s Angels Are Ever Steadfast”.
16.01.2010 - 16.01.2010, Rostock
“Life is a Cabaret” – those were the words sung by Liza Minella alias Sally Bowles in the 1972 film adaptation of the Broadway musical “Cabaret” that brought the latter international renown. The story of the Berlin night club, and the personal dramas of its stars during the period when the National Socialists came to power, has been back on German stages in recent years. The new production in Rostock will premiere on 16 January.
15.01.2010 - 15.01.2010, Dresden
“Dream Couples” is the motto of this year’s Semper Opera Ball, which in the space of only four years has succeeded in gaining a firm place in the opera calendar as an internationally acclaimed event. In a year that is celebrating the fall of the Berlin Wall, the meaning of “Dream Couples” goes well beyond such celebrated pairs as Tristan and Isolde or Romeo and Juliet. With dream couples like East and West, Saxony and Germany and Germany and Europe, what belongs together is now growing together. For guests who failed to secure tickets, the event will once again be shown on a large screen outside the opera house as part of the Semper Open-Air Ball.
07.01.2010 - 10.01.2010, Oberhof
When the first organized biathlon competitions were held in the late 19th century, the event combining cross-country skiing and rifle marksmanship was still a marginal sport with military origins. Today, the biathlon is one of the most popular winter sports events. Thirty-eight nations have already registered to compete in Oberhof’s 19th Biathlon World Cup – a new record.
31.12.2009 - 01.01.2010, Garmisch-Partenkirchen
The Four Hills Tournament is considered one of the major ski jumping tournaments. Since 1952, the popular winter sports event has been held annually in Germany and Austria at the turn of the year. The tournament takes its name from the four venues: Oberstdorf, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Innsbruck and Bischofshofen. The Four Hills Tournament’s New Year’s ski jumping event has traditionally been held in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Last year’s overall winner was the Austrian Wolfgang Loitzl. The record for the most overall victories is held by the Finn Janne Ahonen. However, the German Sven Hannawald is so far the only ski jumper to win all four events at a single Four Hills Tournament.
27.11.2009 - 31.12.2010, Oberhausen, Rheinland
Visitors to this interactive, multimedia exhibition in Oberhausen can gain first-hand experience of foreign peoples’ cult objects. On show are original jungle drums, masks and statues of exotic gods, waiting to transport visitors to foreign worlds. The exhibition is divided into six thematic sections: 1. Creation – Myths of the Beginning of Existence. 2. Nature as the Giver of Life and Bringer of Danger. 3. Spiritual Mediators between Heaven and Earth. 4. Masks – The Phenomenon of Metamorphosis. 5. The Guardians of the Cult. 6. Cult and Sound.