Lessingtheater Wolfenbüttel

"On Fire" leads into a visually striking world full of imagination and movement. Light and shadow merge into flowing choreographies, while a varied mix of music and precisely placed lighting accents intensify the visual impressions. The screen transforms into a space for vivid scenes, poetic moments, and surprising formations that reveal the special appeal of this art form. *The Mobilés* have for many years been one of the outstanding ensembles in shadow theatre. Among the highlights of their international career are winning the French talent show in Paris as well as two awards at the renowned comedy festival "Juste pour rire" in Montreal - the Creativity Award and the Audience Award. Regular TV appearances in the German-speaking world have further increased the ensemble's recognition. Precise, imaginative, and carried by unmistakable aesthetic power - shadow theatre in its most impressive form. *Production: Die Mobilés & Magnetic Music*

With a festive concert, the *Harz Symphony Orchestra* welcomes the new year at the Lessing Theater. Under the musical direction of Johannes Rieger, the orchestra presents an exuberant evening that combines the elegance of the traditional New Year’s Concert with its own distinctive touches. The program takes the audience through beloved works of the classical orchestral repertoire — from lively waltzes and brisk polkas to sparkling concert overtures. Rich melodies, virtuosic orchestral colors, and cheerful surprises create a festive atmosphere that is perfect for the start of the year. Johannes Rieger, for many years the defining conductor and artistic director of the *Harz Theater*, shapes a warm, dynamic sound full of energy and precision together with the *Harz Symphony Orchestra*. A Happy New Year! *Musical direction: Johannes Rieger* *Cast: Harz Symphony Orchestra* *Production: Harz Theater*

Sabah and Romain grow up door to door — she, a girl with Algerian roots, he, a French boy. Out of their deep friendship, a tender love story unfolds over the years. In flashbacks, Romain recounts shared childhood experiences, their first kiss, and those moments in which they both grow through each other. At the same time, social tensions, family expectations, and religious prejudices draw closer and begin to strain their relationship. In this story, lightness and pain, as well as humor and seriousness, are woven into an intense chamber play about love, origins, and identity. The play shows how two young people remain closely connected despite all differences — and how fragile that bond can become in the eyes of the adult world. Fabrice Melquiot is one of the most important contemporary French playwrights. His works for children, young people, and adults have received numerous awards * (German Children's Theatre Prize 2018)* and have been translated into many languages. *Production: Westfälisches Landestheater* *Performance rights with Felix Bloch Erben GmbH & Co KG, Berlin | www.felix-bloch-erben.de*

After a personal upheaval, former university professor Charlie lives in seclusion on a couch in northern Idaho — a condition author Samuel D. Hunter describes as “stranded.” He experiences human closeness only through a dedicated nurse, the young Mormon Elder Thomas, and the cautious renewed contact with his ex-wife and teenage daughter Ellie. The play does not move us because of Charlie’s extreme obesity or his critical health condition, but because of Hunter’s precise yet empathetic взгляд at his characters. With a fine sense of dramaturgy, he creates characters that resonate on multiple emotional levels and stay in the memory. In intense scenes, present and past come together like pieces of a puzzle to form a picture of inner distress, missed opportunities, and deep longing. Only in the moving finale does it become clear why an essay on Herman Melville’s “Moby Dick” runs as a thread through the story of the isolated online English teacher, and what existential questions unfold from it. *Direction: Stephan Hoffmann* *Set design: Izabela Joanna Münchow-Glódź* *Cast: Iris Boss, Franziska Endres, Rajko Geith, Torsten Münchow, Daria Vivien Wolf* *Production: Konzertdirektion Landgraf*

Jennifer and Michael Ehnert have turned their marriage into a stage show for years — with great success. Known from »Küss langsam« and »Zweikampfhasen«, they dissect biological differences, gender debates, communication pitfalls, and the partner’s everyday mistakes with sharp wit. Their new program »We Need to Talk« begins with the realization that many couples’ therapies are strikingly reminiscent of acting techniques. So the two simply move the therapy into their own living room — in pajamas and without professional guidance. What emerges is a glimpse into the worlds of couples that usually remain hidden: humorous, uncompromising, and full of rapid-fire exchanges. With a satirical eye, the Ehnerts take aim at social debates, political absurdities, and global imbalances without losing the charm of their pointed relationship humor. The result is a fast-paced two-person comedy that combines observations from everyday life, self-irony, and sharp social criticism. A comedic duet full of energy and playfulness that is as revealing as it is entertaining. *Cast: Jennifer Ehnert, Michael Ehnert*

Anyone who has ever played an instrument knows: music is most enjoyable when many people sound together. But how does that actually work? What does everyone need to do for an orchestra to come together? And what secrets lie hidden in an ensemble like the *Göttingen Symphony Orchestra*? This family concert explores these questions in an entertaining way—and at the same time draws a line to Ludwig van Beethoven. The “magic wand” also plays a role ... although of course it is called something quite different. Among other things, answers are provided by “The Magic Baton.” The Austrian percussionist and singer Karin Meissl hosts the concert. As a passionate music educator, she shows how one can immerse oneself in the world of the orchestra with wonder, curiosity, and great enjoyment. A concert that encourages both young and old listeners to think along and listen to music with fun and a spirit of discovery. This concert under the direction of Lea Ray is supported as part of the concert funding *Forum Dirigieren – an initiative of the German Music Council –* from funds provided by the *Society for the Exploitation of Ancillary Copyrights mbH (GVL)*. *Host: Karin Meissl Conductor: Lea Ray*

A list of the little things that make life worth living — that is how the story begins of a seven-year-old boy who tries to counter the pain in his family. Ice cream. Water fights. Staying up later and watching TV. The reason for these early notes is his mother’s first suicide attempt. Over the years, the boy grows older, and the list gets longer: 26. Peeing in the sea and nobody noticing. 320. Making up after an argument. 123321. Palindromes. The collection is meant to help his mother, who struggles with depression, and his father, who cannot find a way to deal with his grief — and at the same time becomes an instrument of survival for the son himself. As a young adult, he falls in love, begins to study, and adds new items: 517. Being so familiar with someone that you can ask them to check whether bits of parsley are stuck between your teeth. The British playwright Duncan Macmillan has written an affirming, humorous monologue about the serious subject of depression. By directly involving the audience, a shared moment is created, full of closeness, lightness, and unexpected confidence. *Direction: Katinka Kratzert* *Set design: Elke König* *Cast: Florian Bender* *Production: Wolfgang Borchert Theater*

The singer-songwriter Falk invites audiences to a special evening with “Falk & Friends,” where music, humor, and pointed observations of everyday life come together. With his intelligent, warm-hearted, and at the same time sharply worded songs, Falk is one of the distinctive voices on the German-language singer-songwriter scene. Poetic imagery, subtle wit, and a direct взгляд at life shape his songs. Together with Robert Alan, Sarah Lesch, and *GYMMICK*, a varied program full of musical diversity is created. Robert Alan enriches the evening with idiosyncratic humor and lyrical depth. Sarah Lesch presents songs from her current album “Poesie & Widerstand,” which tells of solidarity, civic courage, and quiet confidence. *GYMMICK*, singer-songwriter, cartoonist, and viral satirist, combines poetry and sharp-witted humor in his performances. Thus, “Falk & Friends” promises an evening full of spontaneity, surprising encounters, and handmade music somewhere between songcraft, cabaret, and storytelling.

After 37 years, the gentlemen of *Herbert Knebel's Monkey Theater* are still on stage with full energy. The new program, »Full Throttle!«, lives up to its name and is touring with a mix of offbeat humor, hot music, and unmistakable Ruhrpott charm. Even though the coach has left his wild touring life behind, Herbert Knebel, Ozzy Ostermann, and Ernst Pichel are not taking it any easier. They are joined by three top-class musicians: Tomek on trumpet, Ludek on trombone, and Bumm-Bumm-Roy from Remscheid on drums. An unbeatable combination of comedy, live music, and dry wit ensures that there won't be a dry eye in the house. A program full of high-energy rhythms and sharp-witted punchlines that delights both die-hard fans and new audiences alike. Whether it's your first time or your umpteenth — nobody will want to miss this monkey theater! *Cast: Martin Breuer, Georg Göbel-Jakobi, Ludwig Götz, Thomas Inderka, Stefan Lammert, Uwe Lyko*

Light casts shadows. The human spirit creates bright, expansive spaces — and at the same time the dark abyss that dwells within us all. This other side can wound, destroy, and in extreme cases even kill. When this wound opens up, our perspective changes: every good deed, every success suddenly acquires a flaw, and the shadow settles over our actions. How do we recognize the approaching darkness? How do we live with it? What burden does it place on us and on the people we love? And can it be captured before a crack becomes an indelible blackness? The chamber dance project “Shadow Catchers” confronts this duality of human existence. It is a choreographic exploration of what is repressed — and at the same time an approach to that force which is necessary in order to endure one’s own shadow and look it in the face. *Choreography: Tarek Assam, Zach Enquist* *Cast: Dance ensemble* *Production: Harztheater*

Nicolas is 17 and increasingly losing his footing. Growing up, school stress, his parents’ separation, and his father’s new family overwhelm him. He skips school, reacts aggressively, and withdraws from those around him. At his own request, he moves from his overburdened mother to his father Pierre and his new wife. Pierre, tormented by guilt, does everything he can to restore stability and confidence to his son. At first, the fresh start seems relieving, but a failed suicide attempt shows just how deep Nicolas’ crisis truly is. Pierre is caught in a spiral of helplessness and responsibility. Although the situation becomes ever more threatening, he hesitates to involve professional support — out of fear, uncertainty, perhaps also from the hope that love alone will be enough. The question of whether affection and family care can be sufficient to save a young person from a downward spiral of the soul forms the emotional core of this moving story. *Direction: Holger Hauer* *Set design: Anja Furthmann* *Cast: Hardy Krüger, Quentin Lopes, Dorothea Schenck, Nadine Menz, Holger Hauer, Paul Radke* *Production: TOURERLEBEN Tourproduktion*

Rossini’s *The Barber of Seville* is one of the most popular comic operas of all time. With rapid pacing, sharply drawn characters, and irresistible music, it tells the story of the clever barber Figaro, who uses charm and ingenuity to bring lovers together and outwit schemers. At the center is the young Rosina, who is kept under strict watch by the suspicious Dr. Bartolo. Bartolo has marriage plans of his own, but Rosina loves Count Almaviva, who initially approaches her in disguise. Figaro, barber and master of improvisation, devises plans to bring the lovers together—accompanied by turbulent complications, surprising twists, and Rossini’s famously sparkling music. The *Harztheater* brings this comic opera to the stage with great enthusiasm and musical energy. A classic of opera literature that, even after more than 200 years, has lost none of its wit, lightness, or joie de vivre. *Production: Harztheater*

Questions in your head and chaos in your body – puberty is an emotional roller coaster and a time of many firsts: the first time slamming the door, the first pimple, the first crush, the first time joining in just because everyone else is doing it. The piece invites the audience into a fictional teenager’s room, where people speak openly. Experiences are shared, questioned, and viewed anew. What have we experienced? How do we tell others about it? And is there even such a thing as “this is how it really was”? With humor and honesty, the piece explores self-worth, sexuality, and the challenges of growing up – a gentle yet vivid look at a stage of life full of uncertainty, tests of courage, and discoveries. *Concept: Merle Delling, Rebecca Zechiel* *Cast: Florian Arndt, Merle Delling, Jannick Stühff, Rebecca Zechiel* *Production: Schrödinger, Theater and Performance Collective* *Running time: 60 minutes*

Two guys, one red, one blue, live on opposite sides of a high mountain. Both watch the same sky — and yet they see something completely different. While one is convinced that day is ending in the evening, the other is certain that night is coming. From this small disagreement grows a big argument, because neither of them wants to give in. Soon the arguments fly as fiercely as the pieces. With wit and lightness, the play tells how quickly conflicts can grow when each side insists only its own view is valid. At the same time, it shows how surprisingly easy understanding can become when both are willing to take the other’s perspective. A musical, colorful adaptation of David McKee’s well-known picture-book story — about conflict, reconciliation, and the joy of seeing the world through different eyes for once. *Direction and text: Stefan Kreißig* *Design: Kerstin Berner* *Cast and music: Nikolaus Herdieckerhoff, Mathieu Pelletier* *Production: Atze Music Theatre* *Running time: 45 minutes*

Fabian Lampert stands for approachability, warmth, and precise observations, which he turns into unmistakably great stand-up comedy. As the winner of the Nachwuchspreis of the Quatsch Comedy Club and the Stuttgart Comedy Clash, he is one of the most exciting voices in the young German comedy scene. With “One of Those Evenings,” he presents his first solo show — a tribute to those light, unforgettable moments in which time and worries stand still for a brief instant. His comedy career began with a bold step into the unknown: moving from Bavaria to Cologne to pursue the dream of a life on stage. Today, Fabian Lampert is an indispensable part of formats such as Nightwash, the Quatsch Comedy Club, and numerous comedy stages from Munich to Berlin. “StandUp Deluxe” is a format on the studio stage of the Lessing Theater. An intimate setting with a maximum of 100 audience members and 60 minutes of pure stand-up.

What connects two spirited, identical, half-Argentine twins from the Ruhr area with Franz Kafka, the Bohemian insurance clerk and perhaps the darkest author in German literature? Apart from an extremely unhealthy fondness for coffee? "Coffee with Kafka" is a fast-paced, witty and humorous cabaret program full of surprising twists. The Goldfarb twins show that Kafka can also be funny—and combine his worldview with current issues and absurd observations from everyday life. Why is life better in the city or in the countryside? Are all rabbits saladists? How do you become a barista at *Kaffee Hag* in Paderborn? Why does the wolf seek psychotherapy after eating the seven little goats? And why does nobody at the *Waldorf School* work with *Windows*? With great enthusiasm, the Goldfarb twins combine Kafka motifs, philosophy and pointed comedy into a rapid journey through heart and mind—with Kafka as a silent companion and the "terrible twins" at the controls. *Concept: Laura Goldfarb, Lisa Goldfarb*

Without preconceived ideas, without attachment to stylistic trends, a space emerges in which control is set aside and spontaneity is allowed. The body remains at the center as the immediate means of expression — moved by music, rhythm, and emotion. The piece is dedicated to timeless values such as human rights, brotherhood, peace, and respect for diversity, which served as inspiration for the choreography. The *Quorum Dance Company* — founded in 2005 by choreographer and dancer Daniel Cardoso — is one of the defining voices of contemporary dance in Portugal. With more than 70 productions and regular tours in Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa, the ensemble has secured a firm place in the international dance scene. Alongside its artistic work, the company runs the *Quorum Academy*, from which the junior ensemble *Projecto Quorum* also emerged. High professionalism, stylistic diversity, and a strong physical expressiveness characterize the company’s signature style — qualities impressively brought together in *Hashtag#Free*. *Choreography: Daniel Cardoso*

The legendary life story of Dr. Johann Faust has lost none of its power to fascinate over the centuries. Every new literary, theatrical, musical, or film interpretation shows how timeless the material has remained. In a present shaped by acceleration, pressure to optimize, the climate crisis, the call for mindfulness, and a profound upheaval of ecclesiastical authority, Faust’s existential struggle feels astonishingly modern. His dissatisfaction with the world, his drive for knowledge, and his longing for a fulfilled life caused him to fail even in the 21st century — perhaps even more clearly than ever before. Thus the figure of Faust becomes a mirror of our time and raises the question of whether society, despite supposed progress, has actually advanced in its fundamental conflicts. “What Dominique Horwitz achieves on stage with his solo show (…) is truly great theater: ‘Herr Teufel Faust’ is a play that has it all on every level, one that enchants through language and impresses through performance.” * (Alexandra Bury, Holsteinischer Courier) *Directed by: Torsten Fischer* *Design: Herbert Schäfer, Vasilis Triantafillopoulos* *Cast: Dominique Horwitz* *Production: Konzertdirektion Landgraf*

In 2027, one of the most significant Argentine dance and music productions returns to Germany. At its center is a panorama of Argentine culture, carried by Nicole Nau, Luis Pereyra, and their outstanding company. The title »Ocaso Amarillo« refers to the pale yellow sky of dusk described by Jorge Luis Borges — that moment when the figures of tango awaken. In an impressive fusion of dance, music, and poetry, Malevos, Compadres, Gauchos, and Chinas encounter one another. Rustling dresses, scraping soles, whirling boleadoras, and precisely placed steps shape the scenes. Guitar sounds, drums, singing, and narration intertwine to form a vivid image of Argentine identity. Works by Astor Piazzolla, original compositions by Luis Pereyra, and texts by Borges can be heard. Pereyra shapes the work as dancer, choreographer, and director, while Nicole Nau embodies the poetry of tango with elegance and expressive power. A tribute to the passionate vitality of Argentina — powerful, sensual, and deeply rooted. *Choreography: Luis Pereyra* *Costumes: Nicole Nau* *Cast: Nicole Nau and Luis Pereyra with company as well as Música y Danza*

Three internationally acclaimed musicians join forces for a chamber concert of exceptional quality: pianist Benjamin Moser, violinist Andrej Bielow, and cellist Danjulo Ishizaka present masterpieces of the repertoire, including Dvořák’s famous "Dumky" Trio and Ravel’s richly colored Piano Trio. Two additional works complete the program. Benjamin Moser became internationally known through his success at the *Tchaikovsky* *Competition* in Moscow and has since been in demand as a soloist and chamber musician. He has appeared with renowned orchestras and at major festivals and has released several award-winning recordings. The Ukrainian violinist Andrej Bielow is one of the most distinguished chamber musicians of his generation. He has performed with leading orchestras and conductors, was first violinist of the *Szymanowski Quartet*, and now teaches at the *University of Music and Performing Arts Graz*. Danjulo Ishizaka has been among the world’s outstanding cellists since winning the *ARD* *Competition*. His recordings have received internationally renowned prizes such as the *Echo Klassik* and the *Gramophone Award*. He is a professor in Basel and Berlin and plays the Stradivarius cello "Feuermann" (1730). *Performers: Andrej Bielow (violin), Danjulo Ishizaka (cello), Benjamin Moser (piano)* _Program_ *Antonín Dvořák (1841 to 1904): Piano Trio in E minor, Op. 90, Dumky Trio* *Maurice Ravel (1875 to 1937): Piano Trio in A minor*

With her unmistakable blend of soul, gospel, blues, and modern pop, Izo FitzRoy is one of the most exciting voices on the British music scene. Her powerful yet warm voice and her honest songs that strike an immediate emotional chord have earned her a growing fan base across Europe. On stage, Izo FitzRoy unleashes her musical energy with impressive ease. Supported by an excellent live band, she combines driving grooves, soulful melodic passages, and powerful gospel harmonies into a dense, emotional soundscape. Her songs tell of strength and vulnerability, of self-confidence, change, and personal liberation — themes she conveys with great authenticity and an intense stage presence. Whether it’s rousing uptempo numbers or intimate ballads, Izo FitzRoy knows how to draw her audience in from the very first note. Her concerts thrive on musical variety and a palpable joy in the shared experience — full of passion, expressiveness, and soul-soaked energy.

The a cappella spectacle is reinventing itself and, with a revised concept, is making a stop at the Lessing Theater. Three ensembles show what power lies in the human voice alone. anders – German pop with depth The Freiburg-based group *anders* breaks with a cappella clichés. As "German poets," they write smart pop songs, far removed from nostalgia or cover-song routine. Their program "So kurz davor" combines humor, melancholy, and poetic sharpness. The winners of the *Aarhus Vocal Festival 2024* impress with their close connection to the audience and a distinctive sound. vocaldente – vocal world-class *vocaldente* is regarded as Germany's most successful a cappella export. The five singers shape their style—from the charm of the Roaring Twenties to modern pop—purely acoustically and without technical effects. Precision, pace, and wit define their performances, with which they have won over juries around the world. YeoMen – extreme a cappella full of energy For over 20 years, the five Berliners have been thrilling audiences with their self-created genre "extreme a cappella." Danceable beats, modern sounds, and a wonderfully chaotic stage show make their performances an experience. Flashing LEDs, soap bubbles, dancing dinosaurs, and showers of confetti are all part of it, along with plenty of humor and infectious energy. *YeoMen* are unconventional, crazy, and always going full throttle. The strength of the flood of voices lies in its diversity: three ensembles, three unmistakable sound worlds, and a shared finale that makes the special magic of the human

IT specialist Felix lives a reclusive life in his perfectly connected smart apartment, protected against viruses and other nuisances. The world outside frightens him. But when Miriam unexpectedly intrudes into his refuge, his orderly reality is thrown into disarray. She is actually only supposed to check the smoke detectors, but her chaotic life brings her back into Felix’s everyday routine in ever new roles — and throws his carefully maintained routine massively off balance. Things become completely turbulent when Felix’s therapist appears, with whom he has a very special relationship. For him, only one last way out remains: escape forward. A highly topical, fast-paced comedy about loneliness — and about how much courage, passion, and imagination it takes to find your way back to life. *Directed by: Gerd Lukas Storzer* *Set design: Stephanie Kniesbeck* *Cast: Tommaso Cacciapuoti, Katrin Filzen, Désirée Nick* *Production: Komödie am Kurfürstendamm*

“In ›Psycho‹ I led the audience as if I were playing an organ,” Alfred Hitchcock said of his famous film, which he himself understood as an experiment. The haunting impact of this source material forms the starting point for the stage project by Matthias Brandt and Jens Thomas. Brandt, one of the most distinctive actors of his generation, reinterprets motifs from Robert Bloch’s literary source. Pianist and singer Jens Thomas – described by the *Süddeutsche Zeitung* as the “Jimi Hendrix of the grand piano” – improvises a live soundtrack to accompany it. This collage of words and music is not fixed or rehearsed to routine, but thrives on the spontaneous, intense interaction between the two artists. An associative space of text, sound and imagination emerges, which the *Frankfurter Rundschau* described as “extraordinarily dense and individually crafted.” The *Göttinger Tageblatt* emphasizes “how directly the audience experiences the terror of that night.” An extraordinary art form between reading, concert and performance – and a contemporary response to Hitchcock’s play with suspense, suggestion and psychological depth. *Cast: Matthias Brandt, Jens Thomas*

Who am I and who are you? What distinguishes us from one another? What makes us “different”? Does “being different” mean being better or worse? Difference becomes the starting point for an exploration of identity, labels, and social expectations. A dancer and an actress meet in a performative battle. In a playful contest of expression and presence, they question role models, break down labels, and test the limits of what they expect from one another — and from themselves. In this way, new spaces emerge in which identity is not fixed, but can be tried out and reimagined. The encounter invites us to understand difference not as separation, but as an opportunity to make diversity visible and open up new perspectives. *Direction: Tina Jücker* *Music: Silas Eifler, Tobias Gubesch, Leonhard Spies* *Set design: Regina Rösing* *Cast: Julia Hoffstaedter, Paul Davis Newgate* *Production: Theater Marabu in co-production with Theater Bonn* *Running time: 50 minutes*

For a long time, many people wondered where Florian Schroeder stood politically and personally. By now, even he no longer knows — and that is precisely where his new happiness lies. In a time when outrage, noise, and bad news seem to outdo one another, Schroeder deliberately sets a counterpoint with “Finally Happy”: being happy as provocation. While everyday crises and apocalyptic rhetoric seem omnipresent, Schroeder turns to what gives courage. He does not claim that the world is in order — but his world currently is, and that could be contagious. Happiness as an attitude, as resilience, and as a defiant affirmation of optimism. In doing so, Schroeder takes a closer look at the concept of friendship: people with whom one can laugh, argue, fail, and carry on — beyond digital echo chambers. And that is exactly the kind of closeness he wants to create on stage. A show about courage, connection, and the attempt to meet the chaos of everyday life with composure.

Three female musicians and singer-songwriters interpret the immortal music of the great Joni Mitchell and tell the beautiful, sad, and often very funny stories behind legendary songs like »Both Sides Now«, »Woodstock«, or »River«. The sound is virtuosic: a diverse, finely tuned array of instruments, powerful solo voices, and moving harmony vocals. Anne de Wolff, Stefanie Hempel, and Iris Romen stay close to the original while also managing to bring Joni Mitchell’s songs into the present with great sensitivity. The result is a musical experience that not only brings pop history to life, but also creates a connection — between what was and what moves us today. A program full of anecdotes, warmth, wildness, and moments of joy — as multifaceted as a whole life. *Cast: Stefanie Hempel, Iris Romen, Anne de Wolff*

A rusty screw, an old hair tie, a crumpled note — at first glance, just worthless junk. But perhaps the screw belongs to a time machine, the note points the way to a treasure, and somewhere there is still a matching key missing. Things that happen to cross our path in everyday life become little wonders on stage: Where do they come from? What journeys have they been on? What stories do they carry within them? In »Krims & Krams«, two performers explore the magic of the everyday together with the audience. With music, movement, and plenty of imagination, they create an object theater piece that makes the value of small things visible and shows how big the world can be in the small. *Theater Karo Acht* has stood for professional children’s and youth theater for 25 years, delighting adults as well. Founded by graduates of the degree program »Cultural Studies and Aesthetic Practice«, the ensemble develops its productions on the basis of intensive research and improvisation and brings literary source material to the stage in imaginative ways. *Set design: Ulrike Schörghofer* *Music: Edgar Wendt* *Cast: Julia Solórzano, Edgar Wendt* *Production: Theater für Niedersachsen in co-production with Theater Karo Acht*

Momo lives in an old theater and has a special gift: she gives people time, listens to them, and reminds them what really matters. But one day the Time Thieves appear on the scene. They steal people’s time, and life loses its color and warmth. Everything becomes gray, hurried, and empty. To find out whether time can actually be stolen, Momo sets out on a dangerous journey. The Time Thieves are hot on her heels — a struggle begins that reaches far beyond the present moment. The *PiedDeFou Theater* tells this timeless story in spoken and sign language and creates an extraordinary experience that combines both forms of expression on an equal footing. The production turns its attention to things that seem self-evident in everyday life: communication, perception, and dealing with one’s own lifetime. *PiedDeFou* was founded in 2016 in Hildesheim and develops productions that make socially relevant topics accessible to deaf and hearing people. The performers communicate playfully, simultaneously, and without hierarchy in both languages. *Production: Theater für Niedersachsen in co-production with Theater PiedDeFou*

"I want to be brave too!" says the little fox. But anyone who wants to be brave also needs a little fear. The little fox, however, knows no fear—of anything at all. So he sets off in search of it: Who stole his fear? And who can help him? Luckily, he meets the little scared rabbit, who knows very well what fear feels like. Together, the two set off on a journey on which they discover both frightening and beautiful things. Step by step, they learn that fear and courage belong together—and that both are important for overcoming challenges. What the fox and rabbit are sure to find along the way is something precious: friendship. Awarded the *IKARUS 2025* by the youth jury: the *IKARUS* is the award of the Jugendkulturservice Berlin for outstanding theatre productions for children and young people. *Direction: Anna Wagner-Fregin* *Puppets: Mechtild Nienaber* *Design: Ira Storch Hausmann, Ralf Wagner* *Cast: Florens Schmidt / Anna Wagner-Fregin, Daniel Wagner* *Production: Theater Zitadelle Puppet Company* *Running time: 45 minutes*

With »Jan Plewka sings Rio Reiser«, the *Hamburg Schauspielhaus* achieved an extraordinary popular success more than ten years ago: always sold out, over 300 performances, celebrated throughout the country. Now the second part is finally here. »When, if not now?« once again brings together songs from Rio Reiser’s solo career, but focuses more strongly on the songs from the years of *Ton Steine Scherben*. Together with the *Black-Red Salvation Army*, Jan Plewka powerfully brings this music into the present. The arrangements have become darker, harder, and more political. The desire for change back then is combined with anger over today’s social conditions. In place of cheerful hits and tender love songs come combative pieces such as »Beyond Eden«, »Why do I feel so lousy?« or »Destroy what destroys you«. The production moves impressively between theatre, performance, and concert. Jan Plewka once again approaches Rio Reiser with great intensity and at the same time makes his songs his own. *Cast: Lieven Brunckhorst (piano, saxophone), Martin Engelbach (drums), Jan Plewka (vocals), Dirk Ritz (bass), Marco Schmedtje (guitar)*

For the opening of the *57th Harzburg Music Days – International Festival*, the audience can look forward to a first-class program. After Mendelssohn’s concert overture and Schumann’s cello concerto, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 6 will be heard – a masterpiece full of the sounds of nature and visionary power. The *NDR Radiophilharmonie*, this time under the baton of the young conductor Agata Zając, ranks among Germany’s most renowned orchestras thanks to its artistic quality and stylistic versatility. The soloist is the internationally acclaimed cellist Trey Lee, whose debut at *Carnegie Hall* was met with standing ovations. The *New York Times* praised his »enveloping richness and lyrical sensitivity«. Agata Zając has already worked with numerous orchestras and opera houses. Her career took her from the *Poznań Academy of Music* via the *Royal Northern College of Music* in Manchester to the *Barcelona Symphony Orchestra*. Most recently, she was *Conductor Fellow* of the *NDR Elbphilharmonie* under Alan Gilbert. The remaining concerts of the *57th Harzburg Music Days* will take place in June in the festival hall of *Bündheim Palace* in Bad Harzburg. Festival information at *www.harzburger-musiktage.de*. *Organizer: Society for the Promotion of the Harzburg Music Days e. V.* _Program_ *Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy (1809 to 1847): The Hebrides op. 26 Concert Overture* *Robert Schumann (1810 to 1856): Concerto for Violoncello and Orchestra op. 129* *Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 to 1827): Symphony No. 6 »Pastoral« op. 68*

Halfpipe, school desk, children’s bedroom – that is the world of Luca, Chris, Quinn and Robin. Four boys, four characters, four life paths. What holds them together, what separates them? When are they strong, when do they feel alone? And do boys really always have to be cool? “Guys” is a unique theatrical experience that, with mask work, beatboxing and live music, poetically and entertainingly questions gender stereotypes and draws the audience right into the action. Strong relationships, surprising twists and humorous status games make the production an experience for all generations. Also featuring: Mando, European beatboxing champion and world champion in loopstation beatboxing, who brings the play to life with infectious sounds and rhythms. A play about friendship, identity and what connects us – for everyone who wonders what it means to be a “guy.” *Direction: Michael Vogel* *Set design: Kathrin Hauer, Markus Trapp, Markus Wos* *Cast: Berta Del Ben/Maraike Brüning, Beate Fischer, Janne Gregor, Jana Heilmann* *Music and beatbox: Daniel Mandolini* *Production: Theater Strahl* *Running time: 70 minutes*

Insects have a dubious reputation among humans: they sting, bite, crawl into cracks, and are often seen as eerie or “gross” because of their antennae, compound eyes, and long legs. Yet they are indispensable for ecological balance. Many beetle species loosen soil, compost waste, pollinate plants, or control pests. At the same time, numerous insects are now on the Red List of endangered species. The “Bad Bugs” — the “evil beetles” — want to counter this creeping disappearance. With their band of the same name, they travel the country and, with hard shells and soft cores, fight the destruction of their habitats. Equipped with synthesizers, electric guitars, and vocals, they sample the idiosyncratic underground sound of the beetle world and present their perspective both musically and through action. They call for solidarity in the effort to protect natural habitats and invite the audience to help reshape the world into a diverse, vibrant, and livable environment — for humans and insects alike. *Direction: Tina Jücker, Claus Overkamp* *Design: Regina Rösing* *Cast: Silas Eifler, Tobias Gubesch, Julia Hoffstaedter/Leonhard Spies, Tina Jücker, Joshua Koch, Alina Loewenich, Claus Overkamp* *Production: Theater Marabu in co-production with Theater Bonn and Beethovenfest Bonn* *Running time: 50 minutes*

They no longer trust the usual dating portals – so six singles in their prime dare to try speed dating. They all bring along a past, quirks, and high expectations, along with a quiet hope for a fresh start. But how do you flirt again, anyway? How do you start a conversation that will stay in the memory? And what should you better avoid so as not to scare the other person off right away? They are accompanied by a young, dynamic hosting team that offers tips and small exercises. Even so, a first date remains a challenge – especially when the bell rings after five minutes and the next impression counts. A cheerful yet touching play about courage, longing, and second chances – and about springtime feelings in the autumn of life. *Directed by: Marc Becker* *Set design: Sabine Flunker* *Cast: Robert Eder, Birthe Gerken, Till Huster, Oskar Ketelhut, Beate Kiupel, Meike Meiners, Johannes Kalle Schäfer, Laura Uhlig* *Production: Ohnsorg Theatre, umbreit Entertainment*