PACT Zollverein Essen
Since it was founded in 2002, PACT Zollverein has become an initiator, motor, and stage for pioneering developments in the fields od dance, performance, theatre, media, and the visual arts. Situated in the heart of the Ruhr District, the house boasts a nationwide unique working structure which consolidates three key areas of activity addressing regional, national and international social and cultural interests which all contribute to the standing and appreciation of dance and performance as independent art forms.
In its residency program, which is open to artists from around the world, PACT operates as an artists’ center offering space for concentrated working processes. Under the rubric platform, it initiates exchanges between artists, academics, and students from diverse disciplines and promotes critical dialogue and reflection on artistic methodologies and findings. Its third main focus is on presenting an innovative and high calibre stage program featuring premieres, co-productions, and guest performances. In addition, projects take a look at the field of the city space, question the function and effects of the urban realm and design models to collectively shape its urban society. Rather than seeking immediate results, PACT’s work is primarily laid out to make lasting provisions for a plurality of different possible models.
Stefan Hilterhaus has been artistic director of PACT since 2002. He shares the position of managing director with Janne Terfrüchte.