Çağla Ilk Appointed as New Director of Maxim Gorki Theater

Ilk will take over the Berlin theater's leadership in 2026, succeeding Shermin Langhoff after a notable tenure.

Çağla Ilk, currently director of the State Art Gallery in Baden-Baden, will assume her new role at the Maxim Gorki Theater in August 2026.
Ilk, known for her work at the Venice Biennale and her transdisciplinary approach, has a background in architecture and dramaturgy.
Her appointment was made solely by Berlin's Cultural Senator Joe Chialo, without a formal search committee or public input.
Ilk aims to maintain the theater's postmigrant profile while exploring new theatrical forms and will advocate for funding amid potential budget cuts.
Shermin Langhoff, the current director, faced criticism over workplace issues but was praised for challenging notions of identity and belonging through theater.