Manuel Gerst: Die Verwandlung

It is arguably the most famous opening of a novel in modern literature: Gregor Samsa wakes up one morning transformed into a giant insect. His family’s sympathy soon turns to alienation and aggression. In the end, Samsa’s death is a relief for everyone. Set designer and director Manuel Gerst, a former member of the cult performance group Monster Truck, transforms Kafka’s story into a happening.

At the center of his production is the figure of the tragic beetle, who once again undergoes a process of transformation: a bachelor party meets performance art. Caught between the tension of impairment and wholeness, Kafka’s parable is interpreted here as a story about disability. The aggression toward the deformed Other in the story is directed on stage toward the object.

A post-performance discussion following the show is part of the event.

“Here, at last, is another evening of theater worth reflecting on for a long time.” –Der Tagesspiegel