Industry Mourns Michael Brenner

More than 600 members of the German entertainment industry were at Christuskirche in Mannheim May 27 for the funeral of producer and impresario Michael Brenner.

The 59-year-old founder of BB Promotions died May 21 after an accident in which his bicycle collided with a motorcycle.

Brenner and his wife and business partner Roswitha had been enjoying a touring holiday.

BB Promotions produced a wide range of entertainment through Germany and beyond, acting as a local promoter for acts including Bruce Springsteen, Coldplay and Sting. He also produced a “Stars of Russian Ballet” tour featuring Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

He was probably best known for long-running musicals such as “Grease,” “Saturday Night Fever,” “West Side Story,” “Chicago,” “Stomp,” “Hairspray,” “Cats” and the Queen-themed “We Will Rock You.”

“He never put a spotlight on his outstanding achievements and astounding accomplishments,” said a funeral eulogy from German promoter Marek Lieberberg. “For him, it was always about the project, the quality, for which he stood like no other.

“With great skill and conviction, he pursued ambitious themes, which he masterfully staged and popularised. Although he was soft spoken and a true moderator, there could be no doubt about his unrelenting desire to accomplish his visions.”

Roswitha Brenner and their children will now take the helm at BB Promotions.