Tabori Preis 2026 - Jury Statement

For many years, raumlaborberlin has been one of the most influential and internationally visible players in the independent cultural landscape. As pioneers of temporary architecture, they have developed an artistic practice that combines architecture, urban development and performative art, thereby expanding the concept of theater in a unique way. In a broader sense, their work is highly theatrical – spaces become stages, architecture becomes performative practice.

With projects such as Hotel Neustadt, the Floating University Berlin and the Radical Playground at the Gropius Bau, they have repeatedly demonstrated how unused or existing spaces can be reinterpreted and activated. The locations developed by raumlaborberlin become open vessels for artistic processes and base stations for numerous performance groups and projects in the independent scene. Over many years, raumlaborberlin has thus created spaces and structures that enable artistic practice for many others. At the same time, they continuously develop their own work: from temporary architectures to long-term processes of urban development and the design of public spaces.

raumlaborberlin’s working method is collective, collaborative and highly participatory. Their projects address current social issues, deliberately reach out to people beyond traditional theater contexts and in doing so achieve a broad engagement of urban society.

Precisely because their practice cannot be clearly categorized as performance art or traditional theater forms, with this decision the jury is sending a deliberate signal for an expanded understanding of the independent performing arts.

raumlaborberlin exemplifies an artistic attitude that opens up spaces, creates structures and continuously expands the formats and audiences of the performing arts.

The expert jury of the Fonds Darstellende Künste is awarding the Tabori Prize 2026, endowed with 100,000 euros, to raumlaborberlin.