MiR.LAB is the interface between musical theatre, the city and the digital present. It is here that new forms of storytelling emerge, in which technology becomes part of the artistic language – and the city itself becomes the stage. After three years as an experimental space within the ‘Neue Wege’ funding programme, MiR.LAB is now an integral part of MiR as a separate division. We are delighted! Since 2024, digital productions have been created, new workshop formats developed and new ways of engaging with the city explored. MiR.LAB has presented its work not only in the theatre, but also outdoors – in neighbourhoods, in squares, in spaces that are transformed into stages only through art. And that is exactly where we’ll stay.

MiR.LAB is based within walking distance of the MiR in the Sparkasse building on Heinrich-König-Platz – yet it is constantly on the move. We set up shop wherever things get exciting, work with local people, develop ideas, adapt them and move on. Through our engagement with the city, this gives rise to formats that evolve and continue to develop.

This is how we remain agile, up to date and close to the action. A key focus of the coming season is the development of the interactive AI opera ‘The System Cannot Fail’ (world premiere 2027–28). This season, we’re opening up the process: with try-outs, experiments and an invitation to you to become part of it. At the same time, our work in the urban space continues: with the ‘Play the City’ games club, we’re moving into a shop premises and developing new worlds together with teenagers and young adults. ‘Diskurs und Daddeln’, our digital art coffee klatch, also remains on the programme.

And who knows: perhaps this whole process might even result in an international airport right in the heart of Gelsenkirchen. Sounds unlikely? That’s what you think. Let’s find out together. Stay tuned.

Nora Krahl
(Artistic Director, MiR.LAB)