Art against war: Interactive theater performances in Vienna!

Art against war: Interactive theater performances in Vienna!

In the heart of Vienna, in the 15th district, the interdisciplinary project “Ubu Baabu: Anti Ubu 25” is on the program, which is expected to attract many people this autumn. With the aim of sending a clear signal against war, violence and authoritarian power structures, the performance combines theater, music and discourse to stand up for freedom and humanity. This exciting project is being launched by “Sprung.wien” and aims to encourage viewers to think and discuss. My district reports that the central performance “Ubu Baabu – Two Dictators, One Principle” delves into the profound topic of abuse of power and the manipulation of democratic values.

The production combines Alfred Jarry's “King Ubu” from 1896 with Wole Soyinka's “King Baabu” from 2001 in order to bring the themes shaped by history to life in the present. Directed by Eva Brenner and an international ensemble, including Mussa Babapatl, Tanju Kamer and Stephanie Waechter, the violent conflicts about power and control are brought to the stage.

Performance dates and events

The main performances will take place on November 14th and 15th in the Slih Ballroom and on November 27th in HausWirtschaft. The addresses are Sechshauser Straße 9 and Bruno-Marek-Allee 5/1 in Vienna. But the project is not just limited to theater performances. Additional events such as readings, lectures and concerts are also planned. A highlight is the reading by Doron Rabinovici, which will take place on November 22nd at Gußhausstraße 14/3, where he will read from his work “The Attitude”. The event is musically supported by Prince Zeka, Fabian Lehner and Redouane Bariane, which further brightens up the cultural supporting program.

A special aspect of the project is the collaboration with the Austrian Women's International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF), which will offer discussion rounds on the explosive topics. A free donation of 10, 15 or 20 euros is suggested for entry, so everyone has the opportunity to become part of this important discussion.

Art and its meaning

Art, derived from the Middle Low German “kunst” and the Proto-Germanic root *kunstiz, stands not only for creativity, but also for knowledge and ability. Wiktionary explains, as this term has been reinterpreted again and again over the centuries. In Austria, art plays a central role in society as it is often used as a means of reflecting on social issues.

The event “Ubu Baabu: Anti Ubu 25” is exactly this example of how art can be used to bring critical issues to the fore and invite dialogue. At a time when violence and authoritarian power structures are at the center of society, it is more important than ever to support such projects. Information and reservations for the performances are at sprung.vienna or available via email to office@experimentaltheater.com.