Zentrum für Kunst
Schwimmen//42: Neurodivergent Performance in Bremen
Overview
Schwimmen//42 is a groundbreaking lecture-performance collaboration between Birgit Freitag and Kathrin Tietze at Zentrum für Kunst Bremen, exploring neurodivergent perspectives through the lens of autistic joy and artistic expression. This inclusive production invites audiences to experience the world through different perceptions, challenging societal norms by celebrating neurodivergent ways of seeing and processing reality as sources of enrichment rather than deficit. Zentrum für Kunst Bremen, located in the Tabakquartier district, is a leading cultural institution dedicated to experimental and socially engaged art practices.
The performance draws from the biographical backgrounds of its two creators, with Kathrin Tietze bringing lived experience from the autistic spectrum with ADHD, while Birgit Freitag approaches the project from a neurotypical perspective. Together with an accessibility coach and interdisciplinary creative team, they have crafted a "third space"—a meeting place where neurotypical and neurodivergent artists collaborate on equal footing, creating artistic audio descriptions and low-threshold access from the very beginning. The production has been developed through a community crowdfunding initiative, reflecting its commitment to inclusive co-creation and audience participation. 
Highlights
Autistic Joy: The performance explores autistic joy—the pleasure and wonder that emerges from experiencing the world through neurodivergent perception. This positive frame redefines how society understands and celebrates different ways of thinking and processing.
True Collaboration: Neurotypical performer Birgit Freitag and autistic performer Kathrin Tietze work as creative equals, guided by an accessibility coach. This partnership demonstrates authentic co-creation rather than representation by outsiders.
Accessibility First: Artistic audio description, low-threshold access, and inclusive design are built into the production from the start, not added as afterthoughts. The accessibility coach works throughout the creative process ensuring genuine inclusion.
Biographical Storytelling: The performance grounds itself in the lived experiences and autobiographical backgrounds of its two creators. This authentic foundation creates compelling, personal narratives about perception and neurodiversity.
Community-Funded Project: Schwimmen//42 was developed through community crowdfunding, reflecting grassroots support and investment in inclusive artistic practices. This funding model emphasizes public backing for socially engaged performance.
Cultural Venue: Zentrum für Kunst Bremen in the Tabakquartier is known for hosting experimental, socially engaged art and performance works. The venue's commitment to progressive programming makes it an ideal home for this innovative project.
Sentiment Analysis
Celebrates neurodivergent perspectives as sources of joy and artistic potential rather than deficits
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Features innovative accessibility practices including audio description and inclusive design from inception
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Creates genuine collaboration between neurotypical and neurodivergent artists on equal footing
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Offers a fresh, affirming approach to representation that challenges societal stigma and discrimination
Limited availability with only a few scheduled performances may make attendance difficult for some
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Specialized nature of the performance may not appeal to audiences seeking traditional entertainment
Know Before You Go
Schwimmen//42 is performed at Zentrum für Kunst Bremen, located at Hermann-Ritter-Str. 108 E, 28197 Bremen in the Großer Saal on the ground floor. The performance features artistic audio description and has been designed with accessibility as a core principle from inception, making it welcoming for neurodivergent and disabled attendees. Admission is €22 or €9 (reduced rate), with free entry for those holding a cultural semester ticket. The production is collaborative and inclusive in nature, created by and featuring neurodivergent and neurotypical artists working together on equal footing with professional accessibility support.
Hot Tip
Arrive early to experience the full accessibility features and atmospheric setup that the production team has carefully designed—the performance begins with intentional framing that sets the inclusive tone for the entire experience.
Location
Meeting Point
Zentrum für Kunst Bremen DE
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