Oedipus reloaded: A funny look at ancient tragedies in Vienna

Oedipus reloaded: A funny look at ancient tragedies in Vienna

In the small but fine Bronski & Grünberg Theater in Vienna-Alsergrund, the premiere of the play “MfG, Oedipus or The Children of the Father of Antigone” thrilled the audience last Wednesday. The production takes viewers to Thebes in the 1990s and shows that the stories of Greek tragedies are still relevant today. The director is Moritz Franz Beichl, who was awarded a Nestroy Prize in 2019 and brings a breath of fresh air to the time-honored myths with his modern adaptation.

Beichl has edited the extensive material so that the essence of the story is conveyed in just three hours (including a break). This density creates space for new interpretations without losing the gravity of the tragedy. The audience not only gets to think, but also smiles, which the director succeeded in as he combines the dark moments with a pinch of comedy.

A creative stage design

The stage design by Monika Rovan visually transports the audience back to the 90s. The audience welcomes the protagonists in front of a fantastic city panorama that shows New Year's Eve of the turn of the millennium. While the Y2K bug is a cause for concern for King Laios, the audience also sees young Oedipus slip into his fateful role. This is done in a witty depiction of mythology that is combined with a wink.

The text alternates between tragic and comic elements, which helps the strong ensemble of Sören Kneidl, Josephine Bloéb, Christian Erdt, Philip Kelz, Skye MacDonald and Bettina Schwarz to present the complex plot in an entertaining way. For example, the idea of ​​an exchange year in Tennessee causes laughter, while the family drama surrounding the story of incest is not lost sight of. It is remarkable how the production manages to address both the pain and absurdities of human nature.

The evening ends with a relaxed feeling. With this performance, Bronski & Grünberg has set a high standard for the coming season. Anyone looking for an entertaining way to engage with classic tragedy should check out the school performances, which are sure to appeal to younger audiences. An opposite to the classical theater tradition, which is often perceived as difficult and daunting.

The production shows that the old stories from ancient Greece have not lost their relevance. Rather, “MfG, Oedipus” addresses topics that are also important today and invites reflection on family relationships and personal decisions. According to reporting on www.tt.com, the piece exceeded all expectations and offers a fresh perspective on a classic material.

The successful combination of humor and serious topics thrilled the audience and promises a promising start to the theater season. Bronski & Grünberg shows that the art of theater remains relevant today.