The article serves as an obituary for Tom Schilling, who was the ballet director at the Komische Oper in East Berlin from 1965 to 1993. Schilling is celebrated for maintaining his integrity and humanity in a challenging environment dominated by socialist oppression and surveillance. Unlike other cultural institutions where the Stasi infiltrated artistic communities to control and manipulate, Schilling protected his artists, refusing to collaborate with the oppressive regime.

Throughout his tenure, Schilling transformed the landscape of dance in East Germany by modernizing classic performances and creating a vibrant dance theatre that resonated with both national and international audiences. His refusal to conform to the Stasi's demands set him apart, as he maintained a commitment to artistic freedom and the well-being of his dancers. This remarkable stance not only earned him respect within the artistic community but also positioned him as a significant historical figure.

Reflecting on Schilling's legacy, the article highlights how his life and work symbolize a resistance to authoritarianism and a dedication to the arts. Through his directorship, he offered a safe haven for creativity and expression in a time when many artists were silenced. The memory of Schilling serves as a poignant reminder of the struggle for artistic integrity and human dignity in oppressive regimes.