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Controversial Choreographer Returns: Goecke's Bold Nutcracker Debut

12/19/2025

41 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

In December 2025, German choreographer Marco Goecke returned as artistic director of Ballet Basel.
That return follows his 2023 incident in which he smeared dog feces on a critic's face.
After a police investigation, he paid a 5,000-euro fine and lost his previous position.
Critics are divided over his new Nutcracker, praising innovation while noting some are willing to overlook the past because of his artistic talent.

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Story summary

In December 2025, German choreographer Marco Goecke returned as artistic director of Ballet Basel.
That return follows his 2023 incident in which he smeared dog feces on a critic's face.
After a police investigation, he paid a 5,000-euro fine and lost his previous position.
Critics are divided over his new Nutcracker, praising innovation while noting some are willing to overlook the past because of his artistic talent.