Soon it will be that time again: the annual funding decisions of the Hamburg Authority for Culture and Media in the field of independent performing arts will be announced. And once again, the question arises: Who gets a slice of the cake – and who doesn’t?

We’re taking this as an opportunity to create a shared space with our already proven format of the “big cake-eating,” where everyone is welcome. Regardless of the funding outcome, we invite you to come together, engage in conversation, reflect on the conditions of artistic work in Hamburg – and grab a slice of the cake – or maybe even two! Our goal is that everyone gets a piece of the cake.

Over coffee, tea, and cake, we want to discuss how the independent scene might position and further develop itself in the face of cultural policy, social, and structural challenges.

At several themed tables, you can actively participate and discuss the different “layers” of the scene. The planned topics are:

• 30-year DfdK anniversary 2027 – Where do we come from, how do we want to celebrate, and where are we headed?

• Federal cultural policy, budget cuts, and social conditions

• Activist cultural work, from artistic practice to work in initiatives, associations, and advocacy groups

• Rehearsal space funds, diffusion funding, and dance space funding – how well do the DfdK funding instruments work?

• Hamburg’s cultural ecosystem – current developments, venues, mechanisms, and strategies – and where is the independent scene heading?

• Visibility & public perception of the independent scene – perception, feedback, and needs

All actors of the independent performing arts scene, as well as anyone interested, are warmly invited. We look forward to an open, supportive exchange and an inspiring afternoon together.

For better planning of the cake quantities, we would appreciate prior registration at anmeldung@dfdk.de.

You can also help us by bringing your own plates, cutlery, and cups – this reduces our workload and potentially any waste.