"Der Freischütz" by Hein Janssen, based on the opera by Carl Maria von Weber, celebrated its premiere on Thursday, May 7, at the sold-out Stadtpuppenbühne Öcher Schängche. The new production is the highlight at the end of the season at the Stadtpuppenbühne. According to director Hanna Birmans, what is particularly appealing about the version for the puppet stage is the strong contrast between the actually dark mood of the story and the comedy that the character of Nieres in particular brings to the table as the king of marksmen and Schängche.

In this version for the puppet stage, Der Freischütz after Hein Janssen tells the story of the young hunter Max, who is only allowed to marry his beloved Agathe if he passes a decisive test shooting. The special attraction - and at the same time the challenge - of this production is the fusion of two contrasting worlds: the dark, almost magical atmosphere of the story and the typical comedy of our stage. Director Hanna Birmans emphasizes above all the exciting contrast between the mysterious atmosphere and the cheerful play of the characters, especially Nieres as the king of marksmen and Schängche.

Afraid of failing, Schängche is persuaded by Kaspar to cast magical free balls that will not miss their target. But these bullets are under the influence of the sinister Samiel, the infernal hunter. While most of the bullets help Max, the last one is directed by Samiel - and threatens to take Agathe's life. In the end, however, good triumphs over evil, not least thanks to Schängchen and Gretchen's help: Agathe is saved, Kaspar falls to his doom and, after a period of probation, Max receives the hand of his beloved. The fact that Janssen has Nieres, of all people, take part in the shooting ensures that the otherwise gloomy saga is given a humorous and comical twist.

Further performances will take place on June 11 (sold out) and July 2 (remaining tickets) at 7:30 pm.

Advance ticket bookings for adult plays are always possible Monday to Thursday before the performance from 10 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. by calling 0241-172016 or at any time by e-mail at puppenbuehne@mail.aachen.de.