Chawwerusch Theater will be performing at the Bessunger Knabenschule on July 4th
With the play "Rausch der Freiheit" (Ecstasy of Freedom) , the Chawwerusch Theater commemorates the Peasants' War of 1525 – and raises the question of the continued relevance of freedom, justice, and rebellion. The open-air performance will take place on Friday, July 4, 2025, at the Bessunger Knabenschule (Bessunger Boys' School) in Darmstadt.
The historical play centers on the great German popular uprising that spread across Alsace, Swabia, Franconia, Thuringia, and the Palatinate 500 years ago. Citizens, peasants, and the oppressed joined forces to demand their rights in the so-called "Twelve Articles." The "Nussdorf Band" was also part of this movement: castles were besieged, victories celebrated, and hope blossomed. But Martin Luther turned away from the movement—and in the end, the rebels were brutally suppressed.
A play about new beginnings, failure, and the price of freedom
The story follows the farmer Jakob, who, after being cheated by his feudal lord, joins the Bundschuh movement. Initial protest evolves into radical resistance. The audience witnesses the course of the Palatinate uprising, the founding of the Nußdorf contingent, and finally the last battle in Pfeddersheim.
But "Rausch der Freiheit" (Ecstasy of Freedom) doesn't stop at history. The Chawwerusch Theater bridges the gap to the present: The idea of freedom – as the play shows – remains relevant, vibrant, and contested. It poses the questions: When is a revolution justified? What must happen for protest to become a movement?
With impressive scenes, historical depth and social relevance, the play brings a piece of German history to the stage – and encourages discussion about democracy, resistance and social change.
