New Year's Concert Kulturring Wittmund (50 Years)

50 Years of Kulturring Wittmund

For 50 years, Kulturring Wittmund e.V. has been one of the most important cultural players in the East Frisian small town. What began as a voluntary initiative in 1976 has developed into a permanent fixture in the regional cultural landscape – with several high-caliber concerts, theater performances, and cultural events annually. In 2026, the association celebrates its 50th anniversary – an occasion that deserves special season planning.

The New Year's Concert as the Anniversary Kick-off

The New Year's Concert on January 25, 2026, marks the start of the anniversary year. It is one of the most renowned events in the Wittmund cultural calendar and traditionally fills the hall. With the ensemble Voice Passion, Kulturring has secured a first-class group that worthily represents the festive format.

Voice Passion – Soprano, Tenor, and Chamber Orchestra

The ensemble Voice Passion consists of:

• Lauren Francis – Soprano, an internationally active soloist with a rich repertoire of operettas and concerts
• Franz Garlik – Tenor, known for his versatility between opera, operetta, and concerts
• Seven-member Chamber Orchestra – Strings and wind instruments in a fine ensemble, ideal for the works of the Viennese tradition

Program: Lehár, Grieg, and Johann Strauss

The selection of works spans festive classics and operettas:

• Franz Lehár – Operetta classics from the repertoire of "The Land of Smiles," "The Merry Widow," and other works
• Edvard Grieg – Romantic classics, possibly from the Peer Gynt Suite or Lyric Pieces
• Johann Strauss – The Viennese waltz tradition, festive and rousing

Double Commitment

The concert is organized in cooperation with the LIONS CLUB Wittmund. As a service club, the LIONS CLUB traditionally engages in cultural and social projects – the cooperation adds an additional donation component to Kulturring's activities and underscores the event's social character.

A Concert with Radiance

The New Year's concert promises an elegant, festive atmosphere that will shape the character of the anniversary year. The further concert dates of the 2025/26 season will continue this high standard, making the anniversary year one of the most densely programmed seasons in the 50-year history of Kulturring Wittmund.