Prof. Reinhard Schramm, Chair of the Jewish Community of Thuringia

“Yiddish Summer Weimar also stands for the ongoing development of Jewish culture, for its future. It represents cultural diversity in Germany and Europe.”

“Weimar, Thuringia, and Germany are proud of this festival. In its 25 years, Yiddish Summer Weimar has won countless friends and great recognition for Yiddish, and therefore for Jewish, culture. Our Jewish Community is also delighted that this festival has earned such an esteemed place in Germany and Europe.” back

Mario Voigt, Prime Minister of Thuringia

“Making music means reaching out to one another. And what you are doing here is a great service to peace and freedom. For that, we in Thuringia are very, very grateful. It enriches our cultural landscape, and we are proud that Yiddish Summer exists. Thank you for that!”

“We will not allow this square [Weimar Marktplatz square] to be occupied again. Instead, it will stand for openness, togetherness, and peace.” back

Kirsten Haß, Executive Director and Board Member, German Federal Cultural Foundation

“This Yiddish Summer is more necessary than ever and must be as loud as possible.”

“It is a true meeting place, a laboratory of cultural diversity, a platform for artistic experiment and excellence – and a space of remembrance at the same time.”

“Since 2016, Yiddish Summer has increasingly developed and produced its own artistic projects, which now tour nationally and internationally – from Thuringia to the world!”

“It opens up spaces for artistic exchange, for encounters, and above all for learning from one another.” back

Dr. Josef Schuster, President of the Central Council of Jews in Germany

“This festival is living proof that in the world of culture there are many people who will not allow Yiddish culture and the Yiddish language to disappear.”

“It is an integral part of cultural life here in Thuringia. Every year, people travel from all over Germany and Europe to celebrate this unique festival of Jewish and Yiddish music. At the same time, an international network of outstanding artists has developed, artists who perform here and now see, value, and actively shape Thuringia as a cultural hub. That is invaluable!”

“Against the racist agenda of the AfD, we set a strong counterpoint of Jewish visibility and social togetherness.”

“This festival is a testament that art outlives its murderers.” back

Peter Kleine, Lord Mayor of Weimar

“I wish this festival the same courage it has shown for 25 years – to place art and culture at the center despite political turmoil and disputes, and to dare to keep bringing this music and these traditions into the public eye. May you keep that courage!”

“I also wish you hope – that this music, these encounters, this togetherness will radiate far beyond Weimar. (...) We are grateful that you carry the name of the city of Weimar with you!” back

Prof. Anne-Kathrin Lindig, President of the University of Music FRANZ LISZT Weimar, on Caravan Orchestra & Choir

“I am fascinated by these sound creations based on diverse musical cultures and traditions. For me, this intercultural orchestra and choir embody a lived utopia, an ideal come true. Caravan shows how people can come together through music, regardless of religion or origin. The music fosters peace, builds bridges across nations and generations, and brings people together.” back