Philophobia

Louise is alone in the forest. She has retreated into nature to reflect in peace on her relationship: What does she want from being in a relationship, and what does true intimacy look like? But when she steps out of her tent, she suddenly finds she’s no longer alone: 200 strangers are staring at her expectantly, yet they don’t make contact with her. Faust rushes to her aid; he’s familiar with these “others” and supposedly with love as well. While the two discuss the intrusive observers and fears of commitment, night gradually falls over the forest, and more figures emerge from the darkness: Eros and Tana, two aliens on a secret mission; Vampira, who absorbs her counterpart, and the robot Maria, who prophesies the arrival of a mediator.

In his first production at Munich’s Volkstheater, director and performance artist Heiki Riipinen gathers those stigmatized by society as “different” around a campfire. United in a newfound bond, they attempt to overcome their fear of love so they will no longer be alone. Everyone in this strange community of shared fate brings their own story of the desire for connection and its failure.

Seating is available on carpet, beanbags, and chairs.