Margit Sponheimer
Honorary citizen of the state capital Mainz
Biography
Margit Sponheimer first appeared at the Mainz Carnival in 1959 and enjoyed sensational success in the 1960s and 1970s with songs such as Gell, du hast mich gelle gern, Am Rosenmontag bin ich geboren and Wähle 06131, which have since become an integral part of the carnival stage. Her songs became not only anthems of the Mainz carnival, but also signature tunes of the state capital Mainz.
Margit Sponheimer was the first female soloist to perform on Mainz television carnival and, in 2010, she became Germany's first female session president. In doing so, she broke through a male-dominated field. Affectionately known as "es Margittsche" in her hometown, she is a popular figure among the people of Mainz.
From the Mainz carnival stage, she conquered the entire carnival world with her carnival evergreens. With her enormous stage presence and lively charm, she is not only an outstanding ambassador for the Mainz carnival, but also for the city in general. Margit Sponheimer perfectly embodies the much-praised Mainz way of life, in which serenity, openness, heart, and humor combine to create an almost family-like atmosphere. Her contribution to the preservation of the dialect is obvious.
At its meeting on February 7, 2018, the Mainz City Council unanimously decided to award Margit Sponheimer honorary citizenship of the state capital Mainz. In doing so, the state capital Mainz honors the great services she has rendered over many decades as the female figurehead of Mainz, the stronghold of carnival.
Reasons for honorary citizenship
With appearances on German television and abroad, Margit Sponheimer contributes significantly to the positive reputation of the state capital Mainz, far beyond its borders. Her artistic achievements and charitable work speak for themselves. Her popularity among young and old in Mainz and beyond remains unbroken.
Margit Sponheimer is considered a "living Mainz legend" and is "part of the family" for all Mainz carnival enthusiasts. She has become the epitome of female German carnival.