A cultural provider with magnetic appeal
Initially, it was a rather small group of culture enthusiasts from Stadecken-Elsheim, led by founding chairperson Heidi Burkhart and Stefan Christiansen, who was responsible for finances from the beginning, that founded KiStE - Culture in Stadecken-Elsheim - in 2003. It was intended to be a local citizen initiative for the permanent establishment of a diverse range of events in the Selztal community. Today, the number of members stands at nearly 60, who have dedicated themselves - under the chairmanship of Peter Kunze since 2013 - to becoming a local cultural provider with magnetic appeal in the wider region. Contributing to KiStE’s continuous progress towards this goal is, on one hand, the "jewel box" Burgscheune, which, due to its ambiance and atmosphere, repeatedly receives applause from performing artists. On the other hand, the diverse event offerings, ranging from classical, jazz, pop, folk, and country to cabaret, pantomime, and dialect events, as well as exhibitions by local artists or the "Open Burgscheune," where talents can showcase their skills, attract a wide variety of visitors to Stadecken-Elsheim.
What makes the events in the Burgscheune particularly appealing is the relaxed atmosphere with changing wine selections from local winemakers and small snack offerings. KiStE members enrich the evenings time and again with homemade delicacies that are appreciated by guests as wine companions. Because such events, whether - as frequently - sold out or - less often - in a "smaller circle," can only be managed if the members are not just name-only members. Chairs must be set up and taken down, glasses washed, or sound equipment set up and dismantled. Preparatory press work is just as important as the texts for suitable introductions. All of this requires a foundation of scouting and contracting the diverse artistic offerings, along with fee negotiations, artist management, and discussions with sponsors. For the latter, KiStE head Peter Kunze puts in considerable effort, describing his goals and perspectives with the words: “We want to remain true to our well-established motto, always dare to try something new and continuously become more demanding.”
