The library of the Staatliche Ballett- und Artistikschule Berlin possesses two special treasures: the personal library of dance critic Horst Koegler and the personal library of choreographer Tom Schilling.
Horst Koegler (1927–2012) was considered one of the most influential dance journalists of his time. His impact on dance journalism was comparable to that of Marcel Reich-Ranicki in literature and Wolfram Siebeck in culinary arts. As a dance critic, he was therefore often imitated and copied—but generally never equaled.
Tom Schilling (1928–2026) was one of the most important choreographers of German dance theater. From 1965 to 1993, he directed the dance theater ensemble at the Komische Oper Berlin. During this time, he created numerous groundbreaking choreographies, distinguished by their topicality and his concept of dance as narrative. They always addressed an audience that wasn’t necessarily familiar with dance as a performance art form.
For many years, the Friend’s Association of the State Ballet School Berlin, together with the Horst Koegler Foundation, have supported the Horst Koegler & Tom Schilling School Library.
Link to the library: https://sbuas.berlin/kontakt-service/bibliothek.html