With the help of a combined scholarship from the state funding organisation FONCA-CONACYT and the KAAD, Juan José Tagle studied for a Master's degree in "Stage Design - Scenic Space" at the Technical University of Berlin from 2012 to 2014, graduating with a grade of "Very good". "Studying in Berlin is the dream of many theatre makers from Latin America. But you shouldn't underestimate the effort involved! You are constantly confronted with theoretical and practical challenges that push you to your limits. But of course: in the end, you look back on great experiences and an excellent education."
Back in Mexico, he soon threw himself into various projects. In the field of stage design, he has realised European works (from Shakespeare to Brecht to Sartre) and plays by numerous Latin American authors, but has also made a name for himself as a theatre director of particularly modern plays. "Art - and theatre in particular - is an important medium for dealing with the contradictory reality of our country, which is torn apart in many ways. I see myself in the tradition of Mexican cultural creators and want to strengthen cultural life as much as I can. In addition to artistic practice, this also includes teaching at universities and art colleges." Juan José Tagle teaches theatre studies at the Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey Campus Santa Fe and the Universidad Anáhuac México.
"The financial support of the KAAD was indispensable for me during my studies in Berlin. But just as important was the fellowship with the other scholarship holders, especially at the Catholic Student Community. If I had to summarise my KAAD experience in three words, I would say: solidarity, diversity, continuous learning.
