David Jakobs: The Burden of Franz – An unforgettable theater experience!

David Jakobs: The Burden of Franz – An unforgettable theater experience!

The wait will soon be over! On June 27, 2025 at 9:00 p.m. the time has come: The Bad Hersfeld Festival will present Friedrich Schiller's classic “The Robbers” in the impressive monastery ruins. Directed by Gil Mehmert, a fresh and musical accent is brought to the well-known tragedy. This not only includes a combination of Schiller's texts and music from the band Die Toten Hosen, but also an ensemble consisting of talented actresses and actors as well as a five-piece rock band. This production promises to captivate the audience and actively involve the abbey ruins in the events.

In the middle of these exciting preparations is David Jakobs, who plays the role of Franz von Moor. The 41-year-old actor, who made a name for himself as a child in the musical “Les Misérables,” describes his character as a “poor guy” who strives for visibility and love. “The frailty of the character fascinates me,” says Jakobs, referring to the rivalry between Franz and his older brother Karl. This complex relationship is central to the events of Schiller's work, which deals with themes such as power, freedom and retribution.

A personal review

David Jakobs grew up in a musical environment, which certainly contributed to his decision to remain faithful to the craft of acting. After graduating from high school, he initially wanted to work in the social sector, but didn't completely lose sight of acting. With a diploma in singing, acting and dance, which he acquired in 2011 at the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen, he has now celebrated numerous successes. This is his first time in the monastery ruins, which he sees as a “historical giant” and which provides an impressive backdrop for the production.

However, his time in Bad Hersfeld was not only characterized by work. He lives with his wife, who is also an actress, and their four-year-old daughter in a cozy apartment in Heenes, overlooking a paddock. “We manage our work commitments well, especially with the support of grandparents,” he explains. But his connection to the stage remains strong, and his collaboration with Gil Mehmert, including in productions such as “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “The Miracle of Bern”, gives hope that this appearance will be another milestone in his career.

The festival at a glance

The Bad Hersfeld Festival starts on Friday with the performance of Shakespeare's “King Lear”. Director Joern Hinkel has staged an exciting mix of political thriller and family drama. This year's festival runs until August 27th and offers visitors an exciting range of five plays, a musical and a musical supporting program. In addition, the new mayor Anke Hofmann will be available to open the season together with prominent guests from politics and culture.

The introductory lectures on “The Robbers” in the museum’s chapter room are already popular and many have already sold out. If you don't want to go away empty-handed, you should secure your tickets quickly, as advance sales are in full swing. Anyone interested in the exciting performances will get their money's worth this season - the Bad Hersfeld Festival has already made a name for itself in the region and is definitely worth a visit. Be there and experience a piece of cultural history in the heart of Hesse!