The First Issue of the IMZ Magazine Is Out Now

The IMZ has launched the IMZ Magazine, a new annual publication dedicated to the evolving landscape of performing arts in audiovisual media. The first issue is now out, offering a curated collection of essays, reflections and industry insights from leading voices across our field.

Conceived as a platform for exchange, the magazine brings together producers, broadcasters, academics, creatives and cultural leaders to reflect on where our sector stands – and where it is heading. Each edition centres on a thematic focus. The inaugural issue explores “Shifting Stages”, examining how performing arts are being reshaped artistically, technologically and structurally.

The issue opens with a reflection by Wolfgang Bergmann on what European culture means in a fragmented and rapidly changing environment. Peter Maniura takes readers inside the IMZ Academy, outlining how digital literacy, collaboration and new production practices are becoming core skills for the next generation.

The societal dimension of culture is addressed by Jennifer Davison and Bea Robein, who explore the intersection of arts and health, arguing for creativity as a shared public good. In a more personal account, Jason Charters reflects on the making of Beethoven’s Nine under extraordinary circumstances, offering insight into the human realities behind large-scale productions.

Chris Hunt examines a question that continues to shape our field: should filmed performances faithfully document the stage, or reimagine it through cinematic language? Meanwhile, Isabella Gaisbauer (mdw) looks at low-latency streaming and global university networks, demonstrating how technology is expanding the possibilities of music education.

Kay Meseberg and Matthias Röder consider how innovation in the performing arts can be communicated more effectively, while Ulrike Köstinger turns to the future of opera. Max Nyffeler revisits the history of the music film through the memoir of legendary director Brian Large, connecting past craftsmanship with present-day practice.

A dedicated section reflects on the IMZ’s own history. In The IMZ and the Power of Collaboration, Franz Patay, Hazel Wright and Reiner Moritz share first-hand accounts of the organisation’s development and international impact. Complementing this, Christiane Hartter traces more than two decades of dancescreen, charting how dance film has evolved alongside new technologies and viewing habits.

The publication concludes with the IMZ Activity Report, offering a comprehensive overview of the organisation’s recent work across markets, festivals, seminars and international cooperation.