anna Loos Criticizes Brandenburg Theater Leadership After Intendant Rejection
Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany – Actress Anna Loos, 55, has publicly voiced her strong disapproval of the Brandenburg Theater’s leadership following the decision to postpone the appointment of a new Intendant (artistic director). the theater’s supervisory board recently opted to delay filling the vacant position, a move Loos characterizes as a failure to address the institution’s deepening crisis.
Loos, married to actor jan josef Liefers since 2004, declared, “The theater resembles a sinking ship, and a change of course is urgently needed.” She argues that the Brandenburg Theater requires a decisive leader wiht a compelling artistic vision, not temporary fixes. “The house does not need further interim solutions; it needs a serious Intendancy with a strong artistic vision and entirely new impulses,” Loos stated, deeming the current approach “powerless and cowardly.”
Despite the setback, Loos has affirmed her continued interest in the role. “And I would like to hereby declare that I maintain my application for the Intendancy of the Brandenburg Theater,” she wrote following the theater’s decision. Loos initially submitted her application in late 2025, outlining plans to establish a permanent ensemble and revitalize the theater.
The actress’s connection to the Brandenburg Theater runs deep. “I grew up in the city of Brandenburg an der Havel. The Brandenburg Theater was my home,” Loos explained. “I got to know it when it was still a real multi-disciplinary house. I know its history, its importance to the city and its people – and also its decline.”
The supervisory board has appointed Carola Söllner, the theater’s current leading dramaturg, as Artistic Director until the end of the 2026/2027 season. This follows the departure of former Intendant Alexander Busche last summer. Loos views this appointment as a conservative measure.”It is a decision for the management of the status quo, not for the future,” she asserted.
Sources indicate that numerous applications were received for the Intendant position, even though it was not formally advertised. According to individuals familiar with the situation, city officials reportedly took issue with previous statements Loos made regarding the theater’s struggles. Loos previously told the German Press Agency (dpa) that “the situation of the theater has continuously deteriorated. Too few tickets are sold, too little program is offered, the theater is increasingly losing its audience, and the lights are more often off than on.”
Loos stated that no one from the supervisory board has yet contacted her, so she will take the initiative to seek a conversation. “The theater is a public place, financed with public money. Clarity is essential,” she said.
The actress’s willingness to publicly challenge the decision underscores the urgency she feels regarding the Brandenburg Theater’s future, and her commitment to fostering a more open and accountable leadership structure.
Why: The Brandenburg Theater’s supervisory board postponed the appointment of a new Intendant, leading to a crisis of leadership and artistic direction.
Who: Actress Anna loos, 55, is the central figure, publicly criticizing the board’s decision and reaffirming her application for the Intendant position. Key players also include Carola Söllner (appointed interim artistic Director),Alexander Busche (former Intendant),and city officials.
What: The supervisory board opted for a temporary solution – appointing Carola Söllner as Artistic Director – rather of seeking a permanent Intendant with a strong artistic vision. Loos views this as a
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