Voices echo in the air around us. These voices tell stories. Welcome to the Polyrama. It is a unique museum here in Berlin. Polyrama opened its doors in March 2023. It stands as Berlin’s first museum dedicated to collecting contemporary life stories.
Polyrama focuses on personal narratives. It shares insights into life experiences. The museum believes every story deserves to be heard. Polyrama particularly highlights less visible perspectives. It also includes stories from the majority society. The museum’s collection is not representative. It juxtaposes different experiences on life themes. These themes include love, hope, and even death. This allows visitors to perceive similarities and differences. They can empathize with diverse life experiences.
Stepping inside Polyrama is like entering a living library. The museum occupies just 60 square meters. It uses this intimate space to its full potential. The stories are presented in individually designed boxes. Visitors can listen to or watch these stories. Personal objects are also displayed. These objects hold special meaning for the storytellers.
Polyrama embraces the approach of oral history. It focuses on personal lives of the present. The stories often refer to the social framework. They highlight barriers within our society. They reveal the consequences for individuals.
The museum primarily collects audio recordings. When interviewing deaf people, Polyrama makes video recordings in sign language. These recordings are edited. They are published on the museum’s website. The stories are also available on common audio platforms. Interviews with deaf people are on YouTube.
Polyrama aims to be inclusive. It also wants to be barrier-free. The museum collaborates with Platz da. This is an organization for inclusive cultural practice. Disabled people share their stories. They work within the Polyrama team. They act as interviewers, artists, and consultants.
The name Polyrama itself has meaning. “Poly” comes from the Greek word “polys”. It means “many” or “several”. “Rama” also has Greek roots. It means “to see”. Therefore, Polyrama signifies many points of view. It is a museum of many perspectives.
Polyrama is open from Wednesday to Sunday. The admission price is voluntary. The regular price is 5.00 Euro. Reduced tickets are available for 3.00 Euro. A Soli-Ticket is 8.00 Euro. Children and youth up to 18 years enter free.
Polyrama is more than a museum. It is a space for empathy. It is a celebration of individual experiences. It is a reminder that every life has a story worth sharing. As you leave Polyrama, consider the stories you have heard. Think about the many perspectives that shape our world. Perhaps you will be inspired to share your own story.