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School theater in Fürth: Drama between love and right-wing extremism!
In the Kulturforum Fürth, the Goethe-Gymnasium experiences conflicts and changes, fueled by political tensions and personal crises.
School theater in Fürth: Drama between love and right-wing extremism!
At a time when social and political tensions are noticeably increasing, the Goethe-Gymnasium is planning a graduation ceremony that is not only important for the students, but also draws attention to the current situation of the educational institution. This special celebration is all about Theresia Walser's new play "The Indignant", which is to be performed in the high school auditorium - shortly before the start of the summer holidays. The Fürth Cultural Forum thus offers a platform to address the pressing questions of our time.
But behind the scenes at the Goethe-Gymnasium there is a lot of simmering going on. Tim's appointment as headteacher has caused confusion and tension within the staff. Ella and Tim, a long-time couple, face challenges in their relationship not only as partners, but also as educators who must assert themselves in a competitive education system. The piece addresses also such conflicts and immerses the characters in a whirlpool of careers, relationships and political beliefs. In view of the new right-wing extremist state government, the issues of racism and nationalism are not just side notes, but a tangible reality that every individual in the school community has to deal with.
Social tensions
The situation in the college is characterized by different reactions. While some cower, others call for resistance to the increasing threat to values once considered sacrosanct. Things are also seething among the students: some begin to burn school books because, in their opinion, they contain “too much Holocaust”. There is a clear rift in the student body, which makes the need for dialogue all the more important.
Meanwhile, the teachers Ella, Tim, Fred and Paula are busy with the upcoming graduation ceremony, which high-ranking politicians from the new government are also expected to attend. The question here is how to deal with one's own beliefs when they meet political reality. Will the celebration be a place for reflection or a simple rejection of the prevailing ideology?
Theater as a mirror of society
The new piece “The Indignant” fits seamlessly into the current discussion about racism and right-wing extremism. In a collection On these topics it is shown that educational institutions are often still confronted with the historical continuities of racism and its current manifestations. Walser's work goes one step further and addresses with a sharp eye the inner conflict of a political advisor who is torn between xenophobic thoughts and his moral values.
The play relies on a minimalist style, played by just two actors who switch genders and present different perspectives. The questions that are raised - whether Ella and Tim are actually still a couple and how many couples can exist in this area of tension - are also questions for society itself.
Overall, the production reflects the challenging reality in which the Goethe-Gymnasium and its actors find themselves. It remains to be seen to what extent the premiere of “The Indignant” will be a space for dialogue and change or whether the challenges of current social developments will continue to remain in the shadows.