Reinhard Horstkotte – clown, acrobat, and percussionist – has been the Artistic Director of ROTE NASEN Deutschland e.V. for 20 years.

His artistic career, which began as a street performer in Italy and developed further through his work in circus and theatre, reflects his lifelong commitment to exploring the transformative power of the arts. Driven by his passion for researching the mythological roots of clowning, Reinhard has collaborated with descendants of the Xam Bushmen in South Africa, connecting their myths with contemporary clowning.

Over the past two decades, Reinhard has guided ROTE NASEN from a grassroots movement to a nationwide organization. He leads a team of 91 artists, curates the artistic direction of the German programmes, and is also active as a teacher and lecturer in Germany and abroad.

As an artistic director, educator, and creative visionary, Reinhard inspires artists both within and beyond the RED NOSES community.