Aristophanes' ancient comedy, "The Birds", performed at the Roman Theatre in Mainz, offers biting satire of societal structures
The ancient Greek comedy "The Birds" by Aristophanes will be brought to life in Mainz's historic Roman Theater, promising a night of laughter, satire, and thought-provoking questions about democracy.
First performed in 414 BC, the play contains much wordplay, satire, and a satirical bite, with a thoughtful conclusion around the question: What can democracy do, and what does it preserve or destroy? The production, a sequel to the successful debut of "Amphitryon" in 2024, will be adapted to a duration of around an hour, with the actors themselves having to slip into different roles.
Aristophanes, born around 450 BC, is considered the most famous comedy writer of classical antiquity. His work, including "The Birds", is a lesson about war, corruption, and the dream of a free community. The city in the sky, created by humans and birds in "The Birds", is also a place where unscrupulous people seek power, influence, and dominion.
Performances at the Roman Theater take place outdoors, so it may get chilly, and seat cushions are recommended. Ticket reservation for the performance can be made via the Mainz Art Gallery by telephone 0174 - 2457830 or email [email protected]. Tickets cost 20 euros each, with a maximum of 60 people allowed.
The seating for spectators in the theatre round is strongly limited for the performance of "The Birds". The comedy promises many crazy birds to see, and the ensemble is excited to bring this ancient work to life in the heart of Mainz.
The premiere of "The Birds" in the Roman Theater in Mainz will take place on August 27, 2025, with further performances on August 28 and September 4. Little is known about Aristophanes, but he was likely trained as a dramatist and was incredibly productive. His most famous work is likely Lysistrata, a play about Athenian women protesting against the Peloponnesian War.
Marie-Luise ThuΜne will play the main role of Peisthetairos in the performance, and Kevin Raupach, the newly elected session president of the Mainz Kleppergarde, is also part of the ensemble.
In case of threatening rain or even thunder and lightning, the performance may have to be cancelled. Please check the Facebook page of the Provincial Theater or this website for updates. Tickets can be pre-ordered or obtained at the box office.
Aristophanes coined the term "cloud-cuckoo-land" for his bird city in "The Birds", peering into the souls of humans and birds. The play, with its themes of madness and chaos in democracy and state, remains relevant today and is sure to be an unforgettable experience in Mainz's ancient Roman Theater.
