Clash in the gravel: Nibelungen festivals stage "Lake of Embers"
The Nibelungen Festival in Worms, Germany, is currently hosting a captivating production of Roland Schimmelpfennig's contemporary interpretation of the medieval epic, "Sea of Ashes." The play, which runs for three hours including an intermission, covers the entire story of the Nibelungenlied and has been met with much acclaim.
The production features a unique stage design, with white plastic chairs and a shimmering pool of water reflecting the cathedral. The central role of Worms, an important setting in the historical Nibelungenlied, is prominently displayed.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the production is the use of modern elements to reinterpret classic themes. For instance, Siegfried bathes in dragon's blood, portrayed by Eivin Nilsen Salthe, but the dragon is invisible and played as a projection by Jasmin Tabatabai.
Kriemhil Hamann plays the role of the revenge-driven Kriemhild, while Denis Geyersbach portrays Giselher, who poignantly declares, "This is no festival, this is war" at the end of the play. Wolfram Koch takes on the role of Hagen, a loyal murderer who would rather kill than doubt, and Jasmin Tabatabai plays a proud Brunhild demanding revenge.
Lisa Natalie Arnold plays the role of the leaf that makes Siegfried vulnerable, adding a touch of the unexpected to the narrative. The audience is invited to actively engage in the play, creating their own stories.
Mina Salehpour directs "Sea of Ashes" as a high-level speech theatre, focusing on language rather than visual drama. This approach, combined with the thought-provoking themes, has led to a production that challenges and engages its audience.
Notable figures such as Julia Klöckner and Alexander Schweitzer attended the premiere, and all performances were sold out before the first performance. "Sea of Ashes" can still be seen in Worms until July 27th. The production has received much applause, with Intendant Nico Hofmann describing ticket sales as a "sensation."
For those unfamiliar with the Nibelungenlied, the story includes the rape of Queen Brunhild by Siegfried and King Gunther, a dispute between the women, Siegfried's murder by Hagen, and Kriemhild's revenge. This modern adaptation presents what was once perhaps heroism as (half)blind loyalty, offering a fresh perspective on this timeless tale.
Audience members are invited to create their own stories within the play, as Mina Salehpour's high-level speech theater production of "Sea of Ashes" focuses more on language than visual drama. This contemporary interpretation of the Nibelungenlied, featuring captivating performances, has been garnering significant praise for its unique blend of classic themes and modern elements, offering a fresh take on the timeless narrative of entertainment.
