Heinz Schenk Memorial Prize: Choosing artists, but no one applies!

Heinz Schenk Memorial Prize: Choosing artists, but no one applies!

The “Heinz Schenk Memorial Prize” is still waiting for applications! Although the original submission deadline ended on March 31, 2025, you still have until December 31, 2023 to apply for the prize worth 4,000 euros. Yes, like that Rhine Palatinate reports, interest so far seems to be rather weak.

The memorial prize was created to keep the memory of television icon Heinz Schenk alive. Born in Mainz in 1924 and died in Wiesbaden in 2014, Schenk was a defining figure in the German entertainment industry. In his television show “Zum Blauen Bock” he reached an audience of millions and made popular entertainment a mass phenomenon from the 60s to the 80s. Klaudia Wick from the Deutsche Kinemathek describes it as a piece of television history that drew families in front of the screens and was a media campfire for many.

Heinz Schenk: A life for entertainment

Schenke made his first steps into the world of entertainment television after originally working as a carpet and curtain dealer. He quickly found his calling in the show industry and became known for his parodies, songs and humorous skits. The foundation's purpose, the promotion of artists who make their audiences laugh, is an honorable legacy that he left behind, like the Heinz Schenk Foundation explained.

Based on Schenk's successes, you can get an idea of ​​how deeply rooted his impulses are in the German television landscape. The prize, awarded every two years and presented near the anniversary of his death on May 1, is intended to honor and support artists and entertainment greats.

A prize with future prospects

The foundation already has plans for future developments of the award, including monthly rental support for acting students, which shows it places great value on supporting the next generation. Chairman Simon Rottloff, along with a three-member board of directors and a seven-member board of trustees, oversees the awarding of the award and ensures that the foundation's goals are achieved.

Although there are currently no applications, the hope is that this will change by the end of 2023. After all, the “Heinz Schenk Memorial Prize” honors a piece of entertainment culture that is part of the way of life for many. Schenk also left behind numerous songs, including the famous “It's all just borrowed,” which still inspires many people today.

A good reason to be inspired and submit your own application. Who knows, maybe you will be the next winner to follow in Heinz Schenk's footsteps!