


Born to an opera singer, Ferdinand Marian quit his engineering studies and ran away from home to join theater. His breakthrough role of Don Pedro de Havila in La Habanera got him typecast in villainous roles. He died in a car accident, though many believe it was a suicide.

Born to renowned German actor Ezard Haußmann and costume designer Doris Haußmann, Leander Haussmann grew up to be associated with Schauspielhaus Bochum. The controversy surrounding his production of Die Fledermaus led to the cancellation of his other projects. He is noted for films such as Hotel Lux.

German actor, director, and producer Fritz Diez was born to a maid servant and had to join theater at age 9 to support his family. He was known for his accurate portrayal of Adolf Hitler in at least 10 projects, both German and international. He was awarded the Patriotic Order of Merit.

Götz Friedrich began his career assisting opera director Walter Felsenstein. Devoted to realistic music theater, he is known for directing legendary operas such as Ring, Die Versuchung, and Un re in ascolto. He also served the Deutsche Oper Berlin as its general director. He eventually succumbed to cancer.

One of Germany’s most influential opera and theater producers, Ruth Berghaus had initially begun her career as a dancer with the Berliner Ensemble and later graduated to production. She also often collaborated with her composer husband Paul Dessau. She was also associated with the Berlin State Opera and the Frankfurt Opera.

His role as Kommissar Ehrlicher in the crime series Tatort earned actor Peter Sodann the title of an honorary inspector from the Dresden police. While he was initially trained as a toolmaker, he later aspired to become a lawyer but ended up joining a cabaret group. He also ran for presidency.