In 2025, Berlin's cultural budget is facing significant cuts of 135 million euros, with an additional 150 million euros projected for 2026, which has sparked discussions about restructuring state-owned theaters.

To address these budgetary challenges, the Berlin Senate is considering outsourcing state-owned theaters, a move that has raised considerable concern among cultural workers.

Alternative cost-reduction strategies, such as shared infrastructure use, have been proposed, contrasting with the current plan to transfer theater operations to private management.

While outright privatization of state theaters seems unlikely, there are fears that they could be transformed into non-profit GmbHs or public law foundations, similar to the Berlin Opera Foundation.

Green Party spokesperson Daniel Wesener welcomed the ongoing dialogue but stressed the necessity for significant budget cuts to prevent the closure of major cultural institutions.

A joint assembly with staff representatives from the affected theaters is scheduled for late April, where staff concerns and future plans will be addressed.

Berlin's Mayor Kai Wegner and Culture Secretary Sarah Wedl-Wilson have engaged in a 'Cultural Dialogue' with theater and orchestra representatives to explore potential savings and alternative governance structures.

Union Verdi has voiced strong opposition to the restructuring plans, fearing they could lead to layoffs and jeopardize existing labor rights under collective agreements.

Critics have expressed concerns about the exclusion of theater staff from discussions regarding their future, arguing that decisions are being made without adequate consultation.

The history of the Berlin Opera Foundation, which resulted in over 100 job losses during its establishment, raises alarms about the potential consequences for state theaters.

Current Culture Senator Joe Chialo is facing criticism for his lack of effective communication with the cultural sector, with calls for better staff representation in the ongoing restructuring discussions.

Details of the ongoing discussions remain confidential, with the Senate's culture administration indicating that results are not yet available as dialogues continue.

The Volksbühne, Gorki Theater, Deutsche Theater, Theater an der Parkaue, and Konzerthaus are among the theaters that could be impacted by the Senate's plans.