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At the start of the 2026 season, the 9er Haus reLoaded is bringing the piece “Oskar Werner – Uncompromisingly into rebirth” on the stage in Rabesreith.
FOREST CHURCHES. For ten years, Bernhard Dechant has been channeling his world-famous fellow actor Oskar Werner (1922–1984) and is driving audiences crazy. The actual topic is something Werner and Dechant have in common: their alcohol addiction. Dechant has conversations with Werner, reveals the low points of his and his own biography and thus impressively demonstrates the difference between a big drinker and a small alcoholic. Meanwhile, the musician Stefan Sterzinger calmly downs one shot after the other. Hard evening, great art. From April to June 2025, the piece went on tour through Vienna’s 23 districts.
Now the award-winning piece full of depth and goosebumps moments is going on tour in Austria and is coming to the 9erHaus reLoaded – more precisely to the Pfabigan family’s worthy guest room in Rabesreith.
Contributors
Sophie Resch: text work/direction
Stefan Sterzinger: music/accordion
Bernhard Dechant: text work/direction/acting
Limited seating, reservations required.
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Table of Contents
- 1. Embed video
- 2. Embed code
- 3. What are the key themes explored in the 9er Haus production of “Oskar Werner”?
- 4. Theater in the 9er Haus: “Oskar Werner” – A Deep Dive
- 5. Deconstructing Werner: The Play’s Structure
- 6. The Performance: A Masterclass in Acting
- 7. The 9er Haus Aesthetic & Production Design
- 8. Werner’s Legacy and the Play’s Relevance
- 9. Beyond the Stage: related Events & Resources
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What are the key themes explored in the 9er Haus production of “Oskar Werner”?
Theater in the 9er Haus: “Oskar Werner” – A Deep Dive
The 9er haus in Hamburg has become synonymous with innovative and challenging theatrical productions. their current offering,“Oskar Werner,” is no exception. This isn’t a biographical play in the conventional sense; rather, it’s a meticulously crafted exploration of the actor’s inner life, anxieties, and artistic struggles, drawing heavily from his letters, interviews, and, of course, his iconic film roles.The production team, led by director Lena Schmidt, has opted for a fragmented narrative, mirroring the often-turbulent nature of Werner’s existence.
Deconstructing Werner: The Play’s Structure
“Oskar Werner” avoids a linear timeline. Rather, scenes jump between pivotal moments in the actor’s life – his early successes in German theater, his breakthrough role in The Diary of Anne Frank, his complex relationship with Marlene dietrich, and his eventual descent into alcoholism and despair.
* Fragmented Scenes: Each scene feels like a recovered memory, often presented with minimal set design, relying heavily on lighting and sound to create atmosphere.
* Direct Address: The actor portraying Werner frequently breaks the fourth wall, delivering monologues directly to the audience, offering glimpses into his character’s thought process.
* Film Excerpts: Cleverly integrated throughout the performance are short clips from werner’s films, not as illustrative flashbacks, but as jarring interruptions, highlighting the disconnect between his public persona and private turmoil. This technique is notably effective during scenes depicting his struggles with fame and the pressures of the film industry.
* Use of Letters: Actual excerpts from Werner’s correspondence are woven into the dialog, lending an authenticity and emotional weight to the performance.
The Performance: A Masterclass in Acting
Julian Voss-Andreae delivers a tour-de-force performance as Oskar Werner. He doesn’t attempt a physical impersonation; instead, he embodies the essence of the actor – his vulnerability, his intelligence, and his self-destructive tendencies.Voss-Andreae’s ability to convey Werner’s internal conflict through subtle gestures and nuanced vocal delivery is truly remarkable.
The supporting cast, playing figures from Werner’s life – Dietrich, his wives, fellow actors – are equally strong, each contributing to the play’s overall sense of psychological realism.The dynamic between Voss-Andreae and actress Clara Lehmann, who portrays Dietrich, is particularly captivating, capturing the complex blend of attraction and resentment that characterized their relationship.
The 9er Haus Aesthetic & Production Design
The 9er Haus itself is a unique venue, a former warehouse space transformed into a black box theater. This raw, industrial setting perfectly complements the play’s themes of alienation and disillusionment.
* Minimalist Set Design: The stage is largely bare, with only a few key props – a chair, a table, a typewriter – used to suggest different locations.
* Atmospheric Lighting: Lighting designer Markus Fischer utilizes stark contrasts and dramatic shadows to create a sense of unease and psychological tension.
* Soundscape: The sound design, by Elena klein, is particularly noteworthy. It incorporates ambient sounds, snippets of Werner’s film scores, and distorted recordings of his voice, creating a haunting and immersive soundscape.
Werner’s Legacy and the Play’s Relevance
Oskar Werner’s career was tragically cut short by his death in 1984 at the age of 65. Despite his talent and acclaim, he remains a relatively obscure figure for contemporary audiences. This production aims to rectify that, offering a compelling and insightful portrait of a complex and troubled artist.
The play’s themes – the price of fame, the search for artistic authenticity, the struggle with mental health – resonate deeply in today’s world. It’s a powerful reminder of the human cost of ambition and the importance of self-acceptance. The production also sparks conversation about the pressures faced by actors and the often-exploitative nature of the entertainment industry.
the 9er Haus is hosting a series of related events in conjunction with the production:
- Post-Performance Discussions: Following select performances,director Lena Schmidt and members of the cast will participate in Q&A sessions with the audience.
- Film Screenings: A retrospective of Oskar Werner’s films will be screened at the nearby Kino Arsenal.
- Exhibition: A small exhibition of photographs and documents related to Werner’s life and career is on display in the 9er Haus lobby.
This production of “Oskar Werner” is more than just a play; it’s an experience. It’s a challenging, thought-provoking, and ultimately moving tribute to a remarkable actor whose story deserves to be told. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in theater, film, or the complexities of the human condition.
