LOFFT
LOFFT – DAS THEATER in Leipzig is a central venue for Free Performing Arts. Since 1997, it has supported artists, offers a diverse program, and advocates for inclusion and sustainability. A place that enriches the cultural diversity in the region.
LOFFT – DAS THEATER
editAbout Us
editLOFFT – DAS THEATER, short for Leipziger Off-Theater, is a renowned production and performance venue for Free Performing Arts in Leipzig. Founded in 1997, LOFFT has developed into a central place for the promotion of dance, performance, and theater art in Leipzig and Saxony.
Location and History
editSince March 2019, LOFFT has been located on the historic grounds of the Spinnerei Leipzig in Hall 7, an international center for contemporary visual arts. Previously, it was based from 1999 to 2018 at the Theaterhaus Leipzig at Lindenauer Markt. This move has given LOFFT the opportunity to further establish itself and expand its variety of artistic offerings.
Mission and Values
editThe main mission of LOFFT is to promote and support freelance artists as well as to present national and international productions. LOFFT is committed to the interests of freelance performing artists in cultural policy at the local, regional, and federal levels. It works closely with various associations such as the State Association of Free Theaters in Saxony, the Federal Association of Free Performing Arts, and the Dachverband Tanz Deutschland.
Program and Offerings
editLOFFT offers a diverse program that includes theater, dance, and performances. Annually, over 450 artists from 15 countries perform. The program includes both original and co-productions, selected through an open and transparent selection process by an Artistic Advisory Board. LOFFT supports co-productions through financial grants, free rehearsal spaces and stages, technical support, and extensive public relations work.
Sustainability and Inclusion
editAn important aspect of LOFFT's work is inclusion and sustainability. The theater particularly advocates for the integration of artists with different physical abilities. The FORWARD DANCE COMPANY, founded in 2019 in collaboration with the socio-cultural center DIE VILLA Leipzig, is the first permanently working professional dance company in Saxony that brings together dancers with normative and non-normative physicalities. Furthermore, LOFFT is working to present parts of the program in rural areas of Saxony to promote cultural diversity throughout the region.
Festivals and Events
editLOFFT is the host and cooperation partner of various renowned festivals, including the euro-scene Leipzig, the MANöVER (since 2006 as OFF Europa), the Leipziger Amateurtheatertage, and the Tanzoffensive. These events help connect the Leipzig scene with national and international artistic developments.
Funding and Support
editLOFFT finances its program through a combination of public and private funds. The basic funding comes from the City of Leipzig and the Free State of Saxony, while additional third-party funds are applied for from funding institutions such as the Cultural Foundation of the Free State of Saxony and the Fund for Performing Arts.
LOFFT – DAS THEATER is thus a vibrant and diverse place that promotes the performing arts, supports inclusive and sustainable artistic projects, and enriches the cultural landscape in Leipzig and beyond.