Der Geizige

In the organizer's words:

Comedy by Molière - Premiere on November 2, 2024 -Schauspielhaus, Großes Haus - Schauspiel

Harpagon fears nothing more than having to share his fortune. The old squire keeps his treasure, with which he has an erotic relationship, hidden in the cellar. Fearing for his money, Harpagon tyrannizes his family and employees with mistrust and avarice. Even love is a mere commodity to him, made to increase his reputation and possessions. Harpagon is utterly appalled by his children Élise and Cléante. Full of life and eager to consume, they refuse to go along with his plans - marrying for love? Harpagon is certain: no way! With Frosine's help, the old man goes on the hunt for a bride and will compete with his own son for his beloved. When the treasure suddenly disappears, the family relationships are completely turned upside down and Harpagon's self-exposure reaches its climax.

Jean-Baptiste Poquelin, known as Molière, went from being an itinerant actor to the first theater director of King Louis XIV. The theatrical genius Molière is considered the inventor of black comedy, and in his plays he knew how to turn his fiery indignation at circumstances into great laughter.

With Thomas Wittmann in the title role, head director Bernadette Sonnenbichler stages the comedy about the most famous miser in dramatic literature. Driven by greed for money and lust for love, the generations in the Harpagon house engage in a spirited exchange of blows: "The plague on avarice and miserliness!"