Osterholz-Scharmbeck, Germany – A latest plattdeutsch (Low German) comedy, “Avendroot,” is set to premiere at the Theater in OHZ (TiO) on Saturday, February 28th, 2026, at Gut Sandbeck. The play promises a blend of dark humor and poignant exploration of aging, memory, and the secrets we maintain, offering audiences a glimpse into the lives of three senior women residing at the “Avendroot” senior residence.
Written by Folke Braband and directed by Astrid Gries, “Avendroot” delves into the daily routines of Marie, Agnes, and Fine – routines filled with activities like crocheting, watching TV quiz shows, and, inevitably, attending funerals. However, beneath the surface of everyday life, complex stories initiate to unravel, revealing hidden depths and unexpected twists. The production will run for a total of 15 performances, concluding on March 29th, 2026.
A Look Inside the “Avendroot” Residence
The play introduces audiences to Fine, a former celebrated performer grappling with a fading career, and Agnes, whose reality increasingly blurs with her past due to the onset of dementia. Marie dedicates herself to caring for both women, navigating the challenges and joys of companionship. The arrival of Patrick, a new caregiver who openly admits he’d rather be serving a prison sentence than working in a nursing home, injects an unexpected energy into the residents’ lives. His initial directness quickly gives way to an endearing connection with the women, culminating in a memorable impromptu strip poker game where he’s declared “a really nice guy” by the experienced residents.
Adding further complexity to the narrative are the characters of Bruno, a charming suitor, and Natalie, whose presence stirs up long-buried secrets. The interplay between these characters promises a compelling exploration of relationships, regret, and the enduring power of the past.
Performance Schedule and Ticket Information
Performances of “Avendroot” will take place at Kulturzentrum Gut Sandbeck, located at Sandbeckstr. 13, Osterholz-Scharmbeck. Most shows begin at 8:00 PM, with matinee performances scheduled for March 1st and 15th at 4:00 PM. The full performance schedule includes dates on March 1st, 5th, 6th, 8th, 11th, 13th, 15th, 17th, 19th, 20th, 22nd, 25th, 27th and 29th, 2026.
Tickets for “Avendroot” are available for purchase through Ticketmaster and on the Theater in OHZ website, www.theater-in-ohz.de. The website also features additional information about the play and scenic photos to entice potential audience members.
The Theater in OHZ, known locally as TiO, produces four theater pieces between October and March each year, encompassing a wide range of genres from musicals and crime dramas to comedies and serious plays. This production marks the culmination of their current season.
As rehearsals continue, director Astrid Gries and her assistant, Tina Weber, are meticulously refining every aspect of the production – from the set design and costumes to the actors’ performances and technical elements – ensuring a polished and captivating experience for audiences. “Avendroot” promises to be a thought-provoking and entertaining exploration of life’s complexities, delivered with a uniquely German sensibility.
The premiere of “Avendroot” on February 28th marks the beginning of a run that will offer audiences a chance to reflect on the universal themes of aging, memory, and the enduring power of human connection. With its blend of humor and pathos, the play is poised to resonate with audiences of all ages.
What comes next for the Theater in OHZ is a period of planning and preparation for their next season, continuing their commitment to bringing diverse and engaging theatrical experiences to the community of Osterholz-Scharmbeck. Share your thoughts on the upcoming production in the comments below!
