Bad Hersfeld Festival Promises Laughter and Dreams with Shakespearean Twist
The Bad Hersfeld Festival, one of Germany’s largest and most tradition-steeped theatrical events, is gearing up for its 74th edition with a promise of laughter, dreams, and a touch of the fantastical. Outgoing artistic director Joern Hinkel is setting the stage for a memorable summer season, highlighted by a bold new interpretation of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," reimagined as "Sommernachtsträume" (Summer Night’s Dreams).
Hinkel, who is also directing the play, aims to deliver a production that offers audiences a delightful escape into a world of enchantment and romantic escapades. Recognizing "A Midsummer Night’s Dream" as one of the early cornerstones of fantasy literature, he intends to fully embrace the play’s inherent magic and populate the stage with fantastical creatures and unexpected encounters. This year’s rendition is set to be a spectacle of lighthearted entertainment, complete with plenty of music and a unique theatrical vision.
What sets Hinkel’s "Sommernachtsträume" apart is the incorporation of characters from other Shakespearean plays, such as Romeo and Juliet, who will find themselves unexpectedly lost within the play’s enchanted forest. This ingenious addition promises to introduce surprising plot twists and create a fascinating interplay between different Shakespearean universes. This crossover element is expected to heighten the comedic and dramatic potential, offering audiences a fresh and innovative take on a classic.
The cast of "Sommernachtsträume" boasts a talented ensemble of actors, including TV crime drama star Erol Sander ("Mordkommission Istanbul"), alongside seasoned performers Anouschka Renzi, Bettina Hauenschild, Christian Nickel, and Helena Sigal. Their combined experience and stage presence promise to bring depth and energy to the production’s vibrant characters.
A notable element of this year’s festival is the unprecedented integration of the Bad Hersfeld Festival Orchestra into a Shakespearean play. Previously, the orchestra’s involvement was primarily limited to the festival’s musical productions, a staple of its program for many years. This year, however, the orchestra will play an integral role in "Sommernachtsträume," providing a specially composed musical score designed to enhance the play’s whimsical atmosphere and emotional resonance. This unique combination of orchestral music and Shakespearean dialogue is expected to elevate the production into an unforgettable theatrical experience.
Hinkel’s directorial vision is centered around amplifying the play’s already eccentric nature. He has described the production as a "Hersfelder summer night full of wild and erotic love stories" with a generous sprinkling of slapstick humor. This approach suggests a playful and energetic interpretation that will emphasize the comedic elements of the play while exploring the themes of love, desire, and illusion.
To further enhance the play’s distinct character, Hinkel has chosen to set the story within a Victorian aristocratic court in the late 19th century. This temporal shift provides a framework for visually stunning and intricate costumes. Hinkel describes the costume design as inspired by Steampunk aesthetics, a fusion of Victorian elegance and technological elements. Expect to see a striking blend of Victorian finery and quirky accessories such as aviator goggles, pocket watches, and leather corsets, all adding to the play’s unique visual appeal.
"Sommernachtsträume" is scheduled to premiere on June 20th, marking the official launch of the Bad Hersfeld Festival.
Beyond the highly anticipated Shakespearean production, the 74th Bad Hersfeld Festival promises a diverse program catering to a wide range of theatrical tastes. The festival will run from June 20th to August 18th, offering audiences a variety of plays and musicals.
Among the highlights is a performance of Schiller’s drama "Die Räuber" (The Robbers), featuring original music by the renowned German punk band Die Toten Hosen. This collaboration brings a contemporary edge to the classic play, potentially attracting a younger audience while offering a new perspective on Schiller’s work.
Following its resounding success in the previous year, the Broadway musical "A Chorus Line" will make a return to the festival stage. This crowd-pleasing musical is sure to delight audiences with its high-energy dance numbers and compelling story of aspiring performers. The play "Wie im Himmel" (As It Is in Heaven), which also garnered considerable acclaim last year, will also be revived for another run.
In addition to its offerings for adult audiences, the Bad Hersfeld Festival is committed to providing family-friendly entertainment. This year’s family production is an adaptation of Astrid Lindgren’s beloved children’s book "Ronja Räubertochter" (Ronia the Robber’s Daughter). This classic tale of friendship, courage, and adventure is expected to captivate young audiences and create lasting memories.
The Bad Hersfeld Festival’s commitment to artistic innovation, combined with its tradition of presenting both classic and contemporary works, has made it a significant cultural institution in Germany. Last year, the festival attracted over 103,000 visitors, demonstrating its enduring appeal and its vital role in the cultural landscape. With its exciting lineup of plays, musicals, and family entertainment, the 74th Bad Hersfeld Festival is poised to be another resounding success, bringing joy, inspiration, and artistic enrichment to audiences from far and wide. The festival’s blend of established talent and innovative reinterpretations ensures a dynamic and engaging experience for theatergoers of all ages.
