Mainz Carnival in Troubled Times: Laughter and Resistance
In a world grappling with crises, the annual Mainz Carnival (Mainz Bleibt Mainz, Wie Es Singt und Lacht) remains a bastion of joy and defiance. For Adi Guckelsberger, 59, donning the mantle of Carnival President this year marks the realization of a lifelong dream.
A Childhood Aspiration Fulfilled
"Since I was five years old and first watched the TV broadcast, I’ve wanted to be Carnival President," says Guckelsberger, a skilled locksmith and insurance agent. He has already filled in for the current Carnival President, Andreas Schmitt, who fell ill during the 2024 campaign. "But it’s a different matter to lead an entire session," he admits.
Carnival’s Role in Turbulent Times
Guckelsberger’s debut as Carnival President coincides with a tumultuous period marked by the Ukraine war, attacks in Magdeburg, Aschaffenburg, and Munich. "In times like these, Carnival has repeatedly given the people of Mainz strength and has been indispensable," says Guckelsberger. After World War II, the French even encouraged the Mainz citizens to revive their Carnival traditions.
Political Satire and the Art of Hope
Kabarettist, composer, and singer Lars Reichow, known for his anchoring of Carnival themes in "Mainz Bleibt Mainz," shares Guckelsberger’s sentiment. "I want to be cheerful and hopeful, but the dark clouds hanging over the political horizon cannot be ignored," he says. Reichow represents the literary-political side of Carnival, while Guckelsberger embodies the spirit of lighthearted entertainment.
"The political situation is downright eerie in some respects," notes Reichow. "What can I say about Alice Weidel? She doesn’t provide punchlines, she provides dystopias." He believes that the AfD (Alternative for Germany) feeds on the shortcomings of democracy. "In this environment, I don’t want to retire and have to say that I spent my life making fun of everything but never took a stand. Only when you stand up and begin to act and help does the feeling of powerlessness and despair vanish."
Finding Inner Peace for Outward Joy
Guckelsberger believes in cultivating inner tranquility to radiate happiness. He prefers to unwind before a Carnival session and practice his voice with a cork. "I don’t like stress. I would rather lie down and then train my voice." He also applies this approach to his work as an insurance agent.
Authenticity and Spontaneity
To Guckelsberger, authenticity and spontaneity are essential ingredients of Carnival. "When I greet the politicians in the hall, I’ll say something funny if something comes to mind." Otherwise, he prefers to remain silent. The same goes for his customer consultations as an insurance agent.
Guckelsberger has served as Carnival President for 33 years, including eight years with the Mainz Carneval-Verein (MCV). In "Mainz Bleibt Mainz," he is most famous for his role as the Night Watchman, a character he initially disliked. "I had to be convinced," he recalls. His first Carnival performance as hobby gardener Erdbeer (Strawberry) dates back more than 40 years. Today, he cringes at the memory.
Evolving Standards in Humor
Regarding the issue of lewd jokes, Guckelsberger states, "They belong in the men’s session." However, society has become more critical and restrictive of such material. Many younger viewers no longer understand the double entendres in these jokes. Additionally, the rule of "keeping Carnival clean" still applies.
Harnessing Carnival for a Higher Purpose
Reichow observes a surprising lack of interest in political background information among many people. "When Trump announces a Middle Eastern Riviera in Gaza, some people don’t care. They say it’s all desert anyway. Or Ukraine? Let the Russians have it. Not everyone is eager for news. They’re concerned with their own lives. They have to fix a window, for example – everyday things like that."
Whether on Carnival stages or other platforms, Reichow seeks to convey a message of hope and resistance through his performances. "I want people to feel better after seeing me. They should want to buy another ticket to see another artist," he says. "I can’t change the world with my performances, but I can brighten it for a moment and show those who share my views that we have the right intentions and clear minds," he continues. "A party that spreads lies and hatred has no place in our society. We deserve better."
