DOSSIER | YOUNG DIRECTORS PROJECT

Foreword

When Jürgen Flimm presented the fascinating idea of the Young Directors Project to us in 2002, we felt immediately that this special theater project was a great fit for us. The idea was to give young, international artists the unique chance to show their extraordinary work as stage directors at the Salzburg Festival.
The Young Directors Project powered by Montblanc celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year, and it is very hard to imagine the Salzburg Festival program without it. But what makes me particularly happy is that many participants have launched successful, international careers.
The entire theater project is made possible financially by Montblanc International. Every year, the best ensemble receives the Montblanc Young Directors Award – a prize with a value of 10,000 Euros. In addition, the winner receives the unique Montblanc Max Reinhardt Pen, designed especially for this project.
In addition to its sponsorship, every year Montblanc donates part of the revenue generated by the sale of its Salzburg special edition “Hommage à Max Reinhardt”. This made it possible to present further productions during recent years.
The exchange with international young artists is an important source of inspiration for the company Montblanc. Montblanc keenly feels its responsibility to support art and culture, having been a cultural brand for many years. In these fast-paced times, art has an important task. Among our hectic daily routine, it enables us to take a break and to focus on new things. Art enriches and inspires us. It offers impulses for a creative renewal of one’s daily life and business routine.
I look forward to continuing our excellent cooperation with the Salzburg Festival, and, of course, to the productions of the 2011 Young Directors Project.

Lutz Bethge
Managing Director, Montblanc International