Ohnsorg-Theater stages gripping adaptation of Siegfried Lenz's 'Deutschstunde'

The Ohnsorg-Theater in Hamburg presents 'Deutschstunde – Biller in Flammen', a stage adaptation of Siegfried Lenz's 1968 novel 'Deutschstunde'. Directed by Kathrin Mayr and adapted for the Low German stage by Clemens Mädge, the production runs until May 23, 2026. The story follows 21-year-old Siggi Jepsen, who in 1952 is in a reformatory and must write an essay on 'The Joys of Duty', recalling his experiences from 1943 to 1945 in the fictional Schleswig-Holstein village of Rugbüll. Central is the conflict between his father, police officer Jens Ole Jepsen, and the painter Max Ludwig Nansen (an allusion to Emil Nolde), who is banned from painting as a 'degenerate' artist. Siggi becomes a compulsive art thief. The play is performed in both High and Low German, with the Low German translation by Peter Nissen, who died shortly before the premiere. The seven-member ensemble includes Flavio Kiener as Siggi, Oliver Warsitz as the father, and Ulrich Bähnk as Nansen. Set and costumes by Anike Sedello create a minimalist chamber play atmosphere. The production received sustained applause and bravos.