Since 1990, the Cologne Dance and Theater Awards have annually recognized the best productions in Cologne’s dance and theater scene. At the same time, they draw national attention to the diversity of this scene, which is unique in Germany. On average, around 25 productions are nominated out of approximately 120 staged works. Applications are open to all professional dance, children’s, and youth theater ensembles, as well as all other independent theater groups based in Cologne that have performed their piece at least three times in the city. Productions by the Municipal Theaters of Cologne (Bühnen der Stadt Köln) are excluded, unless they act purely as a venue or cooperation partner. Each of the now eight awards features its own expert jury, set of regulations, and sponsors. In total, the awards currently carry a prize fund of 47,500 euros.
