From 25 February to 1 March 2026, the "kindly invited" festival presents a rich program at the COMEDIA Theater Cologne, in which various literary groups and institutions boldly and playfully underline the diversity and relevance of literature for the present while exploring the boundaries and norms of the genre.
With a kick-off by poet Monika Rinck, who will talk about the development of readings, the festival will set an inspiring tone with Saša Stanišić's evening of literary hospitality. The works of renowned authors such as Sasha Marianna Salzmann, Judith Schalansky and others chart new paths for the literary future. Other formats that go beyond the scope of traditional literary enjoyment include the participatory performance on February 26, which explores the subversive potential of gossip, as well as the fusion of literature and dance with the artistic collective NO SCRIBES, which redefines identities and pop feminism on stage.
Other items on the program expand the spectrum of literature even further, including into Cologne's urban space: Panel discussions reflect on the challenges of the book market, while the "Market of Making Possible" presents innovative projects for accessibility. Literature will be brought to life in Cologne's urban space through the audio walk with Gilgi and poetry in Hilde Domin Park. The symposium also invites participants to discuss new perspectives and strategies for communicating literature.
The "Bal littéraire" on Saturday evening will be the crowning finale, celebrating literary art in interaction with dance and music, in which artists from different backgrounds will merge text and sound.
The dogma of "Relaxed Performances" ensures an inclusive atmosphere: comfortable seating, wheelchair-accessible areas and other aids guarantee an accessible event for everyone. Supported by various institutions, the event is not just a stage for the present, but a glimpse into the future of literature on stage.
With a kick-off by poet Monika Rinck, who will talk about the development of readings, the festival will set an inspiring tone with Saša Stanišić's evening of literary hospitality. The works of renowned authors such as Sasha Marianna Salzmann, Judith Schalansky and others chart new paths for the literary future. Other formats that go beyond the scope of traditional literary enjoyment include the participatory performance on February 26, which explores the subversive potential of gossip, as well as the fusion of literature and dance with the artistic collective NO SCRIBES, which redefines identities and pop feminism on stage.
Other items on the program expand the spectrum of literature even further, including into Cologne's urban space: Panel discussions reflect on the challenges of the book market, while the "Market of Making Possible" presents innovative projects for accessibility. Literature will be brought to life in Cologne's urban space through the audio walk with Gilgi and poetry in Hilde Domin Park. The symposium also invites participants to discuss new perspectives and strategies for communicating literature.
The "Bal littéraire" on Saturday evening will be the crowning finale, celebrating literary art in interaction with dance and music, in which artists from different backgrounds will merge text and sound.
The dogma of "Relaxed Performances" ensures an inclusive atmosphere: comfortable seating, wheelchair-accessible areas and other aids guarantee an accessible event for everyone. Supported by various institutions, the event is not just a stage for the present, but a glimpse into the future of literature on stage.
Dates
Good to know
Price info
kindly invited offers various ticket options, depending on whether you want to visit the entire festival, a specific day or a specific program item.
There are also various discount options. More detailed information can be found via the link to the festival's VVK.
There are also various discount options. More detailed information can be found via the link to the festival's VVK.
Payment methods
Booking of tickets
Eligibility
Bad Weather Offer
Suitable for any Weather
Target Group Teenager
Target Group Adult
Target Group the Elderly
for familys
for individual guests
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