With: Martin Kaltwasser

In 2013/14, Martin Kaltwasser was commissioned by the theatre group ‘Showcase Beat Le Mot’ to erect the temporary theatre building ‘Ding Dong Dom’. Built with actors, volunteers, and assistants, this low-budget building was constructed in meticulous detail from recycled waste wood. The wish of the client was to build a bright, breathing glasshouse, acting as a total theatre, and giving room to any dramaturgical idea. More than 400 old building windows — sourced from construction site waste containers— form the 360-degree façade, which is mounted on a scaffolding construction. This scaffolding itself rests on four containers, and combines to enclose the wide, bright interior.
Four years later, Kaltwasser visits the still-existing theatre, in an environment that has now changed markedly. Even during the period of construction, it was obvious that is was a place of extreme contrasts. The architectural concept of ‘Ding Dong Dom’ remained unrealised . However, the building proved a special momentum of its own, and is still a much-used part of the ‘Holzmarkt-Ensembles’. Together with guests, Martin Kaltwasser takes a look back at the construction process.