Description

An original, narrative solo work inspired by the life of the Austrian, Jewish, Cabaret entertainer, Fritz Grünbaum.  A multimedia, Dance/Theatre work that explores the entertainer’s life and stage persona and the conflict between the two.  Set to audio recordings of Grünbaum himself and a score of original, popular songs from the Weimar Republic, at the height of the Berlin, Jewish, Cabaret scene in the 1930’s.

Premiere 13th September 2017, The Hospital Club, London

This work is now in development with partners with a view to further touring in late 2018.

Grünbaum (Greentree) reached the height of his fame in the early 20th century, starting out as an operetta librettist.  His reputation for quick-witted repartee soon made his a regular fixture in the world of cabaret and nightclubs; splitting his time between Berlin, Vienna and Budapest.  In the 1930’s he stared in a number of early ‘talkies’.  As an outspoken political voice, sharp satire was always part of his act. An ardent anti-fascist, he was barred from performing in Germany and Hungary in 1933 but continued to mock Hitler in Vienna long after it became dangerous for him to do so. After a failed attempt to escape to Czechoslovakia he was later imprisoned at Dachau.  The irrepressible comedian clandestinely entertained his fellow prisoners with mordant humour about concentration camp life.  Grünbaum gave his final performance  whilst incarcerated on New Years Eve, 1940.  He was quoted as saying “I just want to spread a little happiness on this last day of the year”.  He died two weeks later.

Creative Credits

Choreography and Direction: Richard Bermange
Dramaturgy: Clêr Lewis
Costume Design: Angels Costumes

Original Translation:Dagmar Astleitner

Original Cast

Dancer: Richard Bermange