Urgent: “Die Determen” – A Stark Reminder of History – Free Performance in Germany
Oelde, Germany – A profoundly important piece of theatrical history is being brought to life in Oelde, Germany, on September 7th, 2025. The play “Die Determen” by Peter Weiss, a searing examination of the first Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, will be performed free of charge in the town hall’s large council hall. This isn’t just a theatrical event; it’s a crucial moment for reflection and remembrance, particularly relevant in today’s climate.
Confronting the Past: The Power of “Die Determen”
Premiered in 1965, “Die Determen” isn’t a traditional narrative play. Instead, it’s a documentary drama constructed from the actual testimonies given during the Frankfurt trials – the first time Nazi perpetrators were publicly held accountable for their actions in Auschwitz. The play presents a fragmented, often contradictory, chorus of voices: defendants, witnesses, lawyers, judges, and, most importantly, the echoes of the victims. Weiss deliberately avoids dramatic embellishment, opting for a stark, factual presentation that forces the audience to confront the horrors of the Holocaust directly.
The play’s structure, comprised of eleven “chants,” meticulously traces the journey of individuals from the arrival ramp at Auschwitz to the unimaginable fate awaiting them in the gas chambers and crematoriums. It’s a harrowing experience, designed not to entertain, but to provoke thought and demand moral reckoning. This performance is particularly significant as part of inter-municipal project days dedicated to combating anti-Semitism, racism, and intolerance – a timely initiative given the resurgence of hate speech globally.
A Stage Reflecting the Severity: The Oelde Venue
The choice of the Oelder Council hall is deliberate. Organizers emphasize that the space, stripped of decorative elements, mirrors the play’s own austerity. The stage itself becomes a representation of the cold, unyielding reality of the concentration camp. The power lies not in spectacle, but in the words themselves – the words of those who lived through, and perpetrated, unimaginable cruelty. The performance aims to present the facts “factually, soberly and largely without emotions,” leaving the audience to grapple with the weight of the evidence.
Why This Matters Now: The Importance of Holocaust Remembrance
In an era where historical revisionism and denial are on the rise, remembering the Holocaust is more critical than ever. Plays like “Die Determen” serve as vital counter-narratives, ensuring that the atrocities committed during World War II are not forgotten. The Frankfurt Auschwitz Trials, while groundbreaking, were also controversial, with criticisms leveled at the leniency of the sentences. Weiss’s play doesn’t offer easy answers; it presents the complexities and contradictions of the legal process, forcing audiences to question the nature of justice and accountability.
The enduring relevance of the Holocaust extends beyond historical understanding. It serves as a potent warning against the dangers of unchecked hatred, prejudice, and political extremism. Studying the Holocaust – and engaging with art that confronts it – equips us with the tools to recognize and challenge these forces in our own time. This performance offers a unique opportunity to engage with this history in a deeply personal and impactful way.
Don’t Miss This Important Event
The two-hour performance of “Die Determen” will take place on Sunday, September 7th, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the town hall’s Great Council hall, located at Ratsstiege 1, Oelde. Admission is free, but due to limited seating, registration is required. Secure your place by emailing [email protected]. This is a powerful and important event that promises to be a deeply moving experience. Stay informed with Arcyde News for further updates on cultural events and breaking news impacting communities worldwide.
