We propose to use the existing machines of the ice-making factory on the opposite bank of the Spree river in Berlin to produce a floating stage out of block ice pieces.

Block Ice

Block ice is typically 20cm wide and deep, and 150cm long. With water and salt, 4225 pieces can be “glued” together to create a 13m x 13m large stage that floats on water.

Balance

Such a floating platform would be ideal to stage a theatre version of the Academy Award-winning animated film “Balance” from 1989, the year in which the Berlin Wall fell.

Balance between East and West

As the site was the boundary between East and West Berlin before 1989, the five strange men of the performance will not only balance on a platform, but as well between east and west.

Ephemeral Stage

As the stage is made of ice blocks, it will melt after a couple of days in the water transforming the performance into an ephemeral event and a unique moment.

Audience Space and Facilities

We propose to locate the space for the audience and all the facilities for the theatre on the land using the existing resources of the Holzmarkt as much as possible.