Bloody art enjoyment: Nitsch's finale in the Weinviertel inspires!

Bloody art enjoyment: Nitsch's finale in the Weinviertel inspires!

Hermann Nitsch, who is considered one of the most influential contemporary Austrian artists, found a worthy climax to his artistic career on June 8, 2025 with the posthumously performed new production of his legendary “6-Day Play” in the Weinviertel. Nitsch, who died on April 18, 2022 at the age of 83, is known for his provocative performance art, which often includes Christian symbols and ritual-like actions. His works address human existence and require an intensive engagement with the senses and emotions of the viewer. Kleine Zeitung reports that over 350 people attended the final show and the performance did not provoke any protests, in contrast to previous performances in the 1990s, which were marked by resistance from were accompanied by animal rights activists and the church.

The “6 Day Game” is conceived as an extension of monumental works of art that involves all five senses and thus represents a unique, aesthetic ritual of glorifying existence. It goes back to an idea that Hermann Nitsch developed in 1957, inspired by Richard Wagner and Alexander Scriabin. The first performance of the “6 Days Play” took place in 1998 and was marked by political controversy and protests. However, the current production, a second version of which was completed shortly before Nitsch's death, is less extreme. No serious injuries or shocks were reported. During the performance, the soundscape created by conductor Andrea Cusumano with a 92-piece orchestra was impressive and increased the intensity of the performances. According to Nitsch Foundation, all actions carried out by the O.M. Theater's partial realizations of this game.

Rituals and performances

The performance included impressive, shocking scenes, such as actors drinking blood and having intestines placed on their bodies. The climax of the production, in which fish were slit open and offal was stuffed into a pig carcass, left a lasting impression on viewers. Incense and the smell of blood characterized the atmosphere and made clear Nitsch's intention to draw the audience deep into his world.

For the finale on Whit Monday, a sau dance with celebrity chef Max Stiegl is planned, in which parts of a pig will be processed. This culinary component is intended to bring a further dimension to the artistic experience and, within this framework, to maintain the tradition of the “Orgies Mysteries Theater”. Nevertheless, the theater's future remains uncertain, as Nitsch's widow has stated that another "6 Day Play" is not financially feasible.

A legacy of significance

Hermann Nitsch was born on August 29, 1938 in Vienna and is considered one of the artists who helped found Viennese Actionism. As an action performer, painter, composer and stage designer, he has repeatedly redefined the boundaries of art with his actions and installations. His works can be found not only in Austria but also internationally, and retrospectives give visitors a deep insight into his artistic development. Nitsch Foundation documents the immense relevance and influence of his works, which often address the tragic with raw flesh, blood and entrails.

The historical significance of the “6 Day Game” and Nitsch's entire work represent a fascinating chapter in art history that lives on even after his death and inspires new generations.