Deepest gloom: Staging of "Johanna" by Brecht at the Schauspielhaus Düsseldorf
In the heart of Düsseldorf, the Düsseldorf Schauspielhaus is playing host to a thought-provoking production of Bertolt Brecht's "The Saint Joan of the Slaughterhouses." This reimagining of the Joan of Arc story, set in a modern-day slaughterhouse environment, offers a powerful critique of capitalism and its impact on both animals and workers.
The play's central character, modeled on Joan of Arc, is a young woman who bravely confronts the brutal realities of industrialised meat production. She challenges the dehumanising forces within capitalist society, embodying themes of resistance against exploitation and oppression, and the clash between individual conscience and systemic violence.
The production, under the direction of Roger Vontobel, features a stark, visceral portrayal of slaughterhouses. These are used as a metaphor for societal and ethical slaughter, maintaining Brecht's tradition of epic theatre that invites reflection rather than emotional immersion. The incorporation of corporeal and spiritual regeneration motifs deepens the critical engagement with exploitation, making the play a politically charged commentary on late capitalist reality.
Among the play's memorable characters is Mauler, the "Meat King," played by Heiko Raulin. Dressed in a red coat, Mauler claims to have sympathy for the livestock but is driven by profits. Moritz Klaus plays "Broker" Slift, who is interested only in driving up prices. The characters of Cridle and Graham, portrayed by Claudia Hübbecker and Sebastian Tessenow respectively, are greedy meat factory owners, adding to the play's cast of morally questionable characters.
Caroline Cousin delivers a compelling performance as Johanna, a character who aims to uplift people during dark times of "bloody confusion." Johanna is an advocate for workers who have been locked out due to tactical plant closures, her cries of "We're starving!" echoing through the play.
The production's setting features a gray backdrop with steam rising, characters portrayed as poor creatures sliding through tubes, wriggling in cages, and hanging from hooks. The play's soundtrack, provided by Keith O'Brien, drives the long didactic monologues forward, adding to the overall impact of the production.
Upcoming performances of "The Saint Joan of the Slaughterhouses" at the Düsseldorf Schauspielhaus are scheduled for May 8th, 27th, June 4th, 21st, and July 1st. For tickets and more information, visit www.dhaus.de. Don't miss this powerful exploration of capitalism's dark side.
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