Schiller meets punk: The robbers inspire in Bad Hersfeld!

Schiller meets punk: The robbers inspire in Bad Hersfeld!

On June 27, 2025, the time had finally come: The Bad Hersfeld Festival celebrated the premiere of "Die Räuber", a staging that not only reinterprets Friedrich Schiller's classic, but also ensures a fresh wind by cleverly integrating rocky sounds of the dead pants. Director Gil Mehmert understood to combine these two worlds and to conjure up a rousing spectacle on the stage of the abbey ruins, which captivates the audience. Already for performance, the spectators show their enthusiasm with standing ovation.

The staging tells the history of the unequal brothers Karl and Franz Moor, with the power struggle between the two central issues such as freedom and retaliation. Karl is appointed captain of a gang of robbers by the intrigues of his brother Franz. In the middle of this game, Karl and Amalia meet, who is in love with him. But fate takes a tragic turn when Karl has to kill Amalia's wish in order to protect the favor of the robbers. This complex relationship is presented in a lively and authentic way, in contrast to the nobility side, which is also the subject of the piece.

music meets drama

What makes the staging special is the exciting integration of punk rock songs of the dead trousers. With an ensemble of talented actors, musical actors and a five-member rock band, it is possible to expand Schiller's emotional rooms with musical interludes. This idea is not new to Mehmert, which already has experience with similar productions such as "Cabaret" and "Hair" at this location. Here, too, the ruin is actively integrated into the action.

Thanks to the creative handwriting of stage designer Jens Kilian and costume designer Heike Meixner, the piece receives visual depth and authenticity. The selection of the songs includes both well -known and less well -known titles that accompany the narrative in a captivating way. The combination of Schiller's urgent text and the energetic music of the dead trousers raises the theater experience to a new level and addresses both lovers of classical literature and fans of modern rock music. This refreshing idea summarizes what many appreciate the Bad Hersfeld Festival - the courage to link tradition with innovation.

appointments and outlook

The next performances of "Die Räuber" are already completely sold out, which underlines the great appeal of the staging. Here is an overview of the next dates:

The continued enthusiasm gives hope that “the robbers” will not only become a short -lived trend, but a new highlight in the festival calendar. More information about other dates is available on the website of the Bad Hersfelder Festival.

The production of Gil Mehmert remains not only a tribute to Schiller's literary heritage, but also a rousing theater experience that needs to be experienced. The connection between history and modern music once again shows how alive and exciting theater can be. The Bad Hersfeld Abbey Ruin remains a lot to offer this season, and the audience can look forward to a number of other captivating performances. For example night criticism is thrilled and nevertheless reports of the strong reactions of the audience.

A visit is therefore a mandatory for everyone who is interested in gripping theater in a unique backdrop. Whether young or old, everyone will find their joy here!