Jedermann
Since 1920, "Jedermann," "The Play of the Rich Man's Death" by Hugo von Hofmannsthal, has been performed at the Salzburg Festival in front of the mighty Salzburg Cathedral. In 2013, Julian Crouch and Brian Mertes, as the directing team, took on the challenge of staging a new production. "We will begin ceremoniously with a procession from the Festspielhaus to the Cathedral Square, working with nature, the elements, the city, each other – but above all with the audience – to tell the story of 'Everyman,' his life's journey and transformation. His life must be rich, joyful, and overflowing – also for the audience. On the path to his conversion, he encounters a number of very powerful theatrical characters. We want – like a medieval theater troupe – to captivate our audience with spectacle and humor, to sweep them away, and invite them to follow Everyman's path and to understand it as their own – at least for the two-hour performance."
Insights
Plot Summary
This theatrical adaptation of Hugo von Hofmannsthal's classic morality play 'Everyman' follows a wealthy man who is suddenly confronted by Death. He must then reckon with his life and prepare for his final judgment. His attempts to find companions for his journey are met with rejection, forcing him to face his mortality alone.
Critical Reception
The 2013 staging of 'Jedermann' by Thomas Pfaff was met with varied reactions. While some critics lauded its modern interpretation and the performances, others found it less impactful than previous iterations of the timeless story. Audience reception was generally positive, appreciating the accessibility of the classic text.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its contemporary relevance and staging.
- Criticized by some for not fully capturing the existential weight of the original.
- Appreciated for its accessible approach to a classic play.
Google audience: Audience members generally found the production engaging and thought-provoking, appreciating the familiar themes presented in a fresh way. Some reviews noted that while the performances were strong, the overall emotional impact could have been deeper.
Fun Fact
The original play 'Jedermann' by Hugo von Hofmannsthal has been performed annually at the Domplatz in Salzburg, Austria, since 1920, making it one of the longest-running theatrical traditions in the world.
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