Our first event for this year is an opportunity not to be missed: we're honoured to invite you to an evening with Peter Keup, an historian and living witness (Zeitzeuge) of the former German Democratic Republic (otherwise known as East Germany or die Deutsche Demokratische Republic (DDR)).  

Mr Keup brings a unique perspective to a fascinating subject: he was a successful ballroom dancer who represented East Germany in numerous championships.

Mr Keup hoped to participate in dance competitions in the West, to further his ballroom dancing career. He was inspired to escape to the West after reading an article in the West German magazine, Der Stern, which he'd secretly obtained, as the magazine was banned in East Germany.  

In July 1981, Mr Keup attempted his escape from East Germany via Czechoslovakia, however he was captured by the Ministry for State Security, more commonly known as the Stasi.  After being sentenced and imprisoned in a Stasi prison in Dresden, Mr Keup was eventually released when West Germany paid East Germany to release prisoners to the West.

Mr Keup will share his incredible story with us on Monday 17 February, at 6pm in the CLL-Building, 207-501, Pat Hanan Room, 18 Symonds Street. He will speak for around one hour, then there will be an opportunity for discussion and questions. The talk will be in English.