“
Erich Kästner would surely have rejoiced. Because with the stage adaption of the stage classic Anna Louise and Anton Cornelia Rainer succeeds to proverbially square the circle. Great cinema for the little ones.”
Director Cornelia Rainer has shortened her version of Kästner well and lovingly, and added other works such as “Lotte and Lisa” and biographical details from Kästner’s life and transferred all of this gently into the present time. It is another advantage that older people can delight in a play about plays. And social criticism delivered without being hammered home to you, is the trump card of this two-and-a-half-hour (including interval) production which convinces without bombastic effects.
Apartments or streets are implied by floor plans and few set pieces (beds, desks, fridge, benches or flatscreens) and Sarah Haas (stage and costumes) also relies on the audience’s imagination.
And Erich Kästner- true-to-life- adorable Martin Schwab as slips into many roles and guides as stage manager through the events. Rich and Poor, Good and Evil- Kästner’s plea for a paradise which is appropriate for children and liveable for everyone is shown to advantage by a confident children’s orchestra.
The acting is very sophisticated: especially Adriana Gerstner- the actors of the children’s roles vary- is a very gripping, exuberant and likeable Anna Louise. Florian Klingler as Anton and Merlin Milinci as Klepperbein prove themselves to be very talented modern kids. My compliments to all the participants.”