Summary of the 13th SCHÄXPIR Theatre Festival for Young Audiences
The last days of the festival were marked by the tragic event in Graz. During the three days of national mourning, the program was reduced out of respect for the victims and their families and friends.
On Friday and Saturday, many shows still took place at different locations in Linz.
SCHÄXPIR 2025 in Numbers: In total, 9,386 people visited the festival. That means the shows were 83.78% full on average.
Upper Austrian Governor and Culture Representative Mag. Thomas Stelzer said: “Because of recent events in Austria and the world, it is important that festivals like SCHÄXPIR continue after the first days of mourning. Art and culture help us forget everyday life for a while, understand what we have experienced, and see things in new ways. SCHÄXPIR gives young people new perspectives, which is very important right now. The festival had something for everyone. I’m glad so many people came and thank everyone who helped make SCHÄXPIR a success.”
Cultural Director Mag.a Margot Nazzal also said: “The 13th SCHÄXPIR gave young people great shows, and also a place to meet, talk, and think together. The festival showed again that it creates important and meaningful art, with modern theatre methods. It was a great success, thanks also to our partners. I thank them for the great cooperation.”
The SCHÄXPIR Leadership Team (Anja Lang, Julia Ransmayr, and Sara Ostertag) said: “What remains is a surprised, amazed, and curious audience. What remains are stories and experiences at 26 places in the city. International and local artists connected with young and adult people. There are new ideas for future projects. And we remember how fragile and vulnerable our life together is. What remains is what comes next, without forgetting what has happened.”