The performance #freemaria is an artistic and reflective project by the Belarusian artist and democratic opposition politician Maria Kalesnikava. Based on the political events in Belarus since 2020, the work, developed together with director Jochen Sandig, combines personal experience, political reality, and philosophical reflection. Within an open stage setting, the audience is invited to listen and reflect on inner freedom, dignity, and individual responsibility. The performance will take place on 9. April at 8:00 pm at Radialsystem Berlin.
Image above: Maria Kalesnikava ©LEIDIK 2020
#freemaria is a performative and reflective project by Maria Kalesnikava. The artist and democratic opposition politician from Belarus, who, following her release from a long prison sentence in December 2025, was able to accept in person the International Charlemagne Prize of Aachen in March 2026, which had been awarded to her in 2022, is developing this work at Radialsystem, Berlin together with director Jochen Sandig, based on the events in Belarus in 2020 and the years that followed. In an open stage space, the audience is invited to listen to Maria Kalesnikavas story.
The focus is on inner freedom, dignity and responsibility for one’s own decisions. The project tells of steadfastness, of love for family and country, and of the power of the spirit – a power that can remain free even under external pressure. The performance combines Maria Kalesnikava’s personal experience with philosophical reflection. Music and art become the inner space of the soul – a place for thoughts, hope and courage. Perhaps art does not save the world, but it can give people strength and bring them salvation. Maria Kalesnikava wishes to share this insight with us all.
WHEN?
Thursday, 09. April 2026, 8 pm
WHERE?
Radialsystem Berlin
Holzmarktstraße 33
10243 Berlin
