RAVE

Less drama, more techno!

In the 1990s, Kassel developed into Germany's third techno stronghold alongside Frankfurt and Berlin. At its center was a legendary club: Aufschwung Ost, later Stammheim. Here, a small clique of techno enthusiasts created a Germany-wide pilgrimage site for the new subculture - with an unmistakable design and even its own comic series. Internationally renowned stars such as Dr. Motte and DJ Rush paid tribute to the cult venue and celebrated the unique atmosphere on up to three floors and 5,000 m² of dancefloor. Those were the carefree 90s: a spirit of optimism and experiences of breaking free on the long nights from Friday to Monday.

The year 2002 marked the end of this era: after years of conflict over noise pollution, mountains of garbage and drug abuse, the legendary club's lease was finally not renewed. What remained was a gap in Kassel's cultural landscape. More than two decades later, Schauspiel Kassel is revisiting this fascinating part of the city's history and bringing it out of obscurity at a new location - the INTERIM.

A phase of intensive research has resulted in a play that goes far beyond a purely historical retrospective. It is a tribute to the love of electronic music and an examination of the attitude to life of an entire generation. What utopia was there in techno back then and what relevance does club culture have today?

Laura N. Junghanns' third work in Kassel develops from a documentary into a rave: garish costumes, hypnotic stage effects and the booming beats of DJ Chi form the framework for a cast that breaks all boundaries. And finally, some of Kassel's biggest names in the scene are also at the start. What could possibly go wrong? Nothing. Everything. A look back with love that arrives in the present with a passion for dance. No regrets, please - less drama, more techno!

In cooperation with the PLUS ensemble of the Staatstheater Kassel, Club Graf Karl, Bringmann & Kopetzki and Familienfeier❤️