René Harder

René Harder is a Professor of Acting at Alanus University of Arts and Society, specializing in scene study and project development. He leads the performArt program and previously chaired the Department of Acting and Performing Arts until 2016. Born in 1971, he has been a freelance director, writer, and actor since 1999, working across theaters in Hamburg, Görlitz, Leipzig, and Konstanz, as well as in film and television (ZDF/NDR/Arte). He is a father of five children.

Education: Waldorf School Überlingen-Rengoldshausen (1991), studies in acting/directing at St. Petersburg State Institute, Michael Chekhov Course in Berlin, and applied theater studies in Giessen. Graduated as a director from Hamburg University's Institute for Theater, Musical Theater, and Film in 2000.

Research interests focus on innovative theater practices, collaborative ensemble work, and interdisciplinary projects blending performance with social themes. His work spans classical adaptations (e.g., Sophocles' 'Elektra') and original works like 'Kalte Platte' with homeless theater groups, emphasizing community engagement.

Award-winning projects include the documentary 'Herr Pilipenko und sein U-Boot' (Yamagata Audience Prize, Cleveland Best Documentary), and the German-Norwegian co-production 'Die Hüter der Tundra' (2013 Locarno Film Festival). He has directed over 50 theater productions, including world premieres and works for youth.

Notable accolades include the Grenzgänger Fellowship (2008) and the Rudolf-Steiner-Express cultural initiative leadership (2011). His creative collaborations span film, theater, and radio, with notable works like the interactive radio play 'Geh-Hör-Gang' (Leipzig Book Fair selection).