At St Thomas’ Church, on the corner of Klostergasse, stands the traditional candle platform in the shape of 89. Many individual candles come together to form the number, creating a peaceful, warmly lit place of remembrance. Visitors can pause here, light candles and talk to one another.
Between 7 pm and 11 pm, discussions with contemporary witnesses will take place on a small stage. Presenter Nils Straatmann will speak with people who experienced and helped shape the autumn of 1989 in Leipzig. Topics include personal memories of the 9ᵗʰ of October, the hopes and fears of the time, and questions such as ‘Stay or leave?’. The importance of media freedom, the environment, the church and democratic engagement will also be addressed.
After a moderated discussion, the audience will be invited to ask questions. There will then be an opportunity to continue the conversation with the guests in person away from the stage. Simple seating will be available in front of the stage for the discussions; audience members may come and go.
The discussions will take place exclusively in German.