Brandner Kaspar

THEATER CLASSIC AS A MUSICAL

Who hasn’t heard of the story of Brandner Kaspar? Several stage adaptations and film versions have been dedicated to this Bavarian national hero, and now there’s a musical as well. Rock-inspired songs, zany punchlines, and a deep love for the Bavarian homeland: After several sold-out performances, Benjamin Sahler’s heavenly production is returning.

REACHING INTO THE WORLD OF LEGEND

The story of how Kaspar Brandner, a moonshiner and gunsmith, manages to get the “Boandlkramer” drunk on cherry brandy and cheat Death out of eighteen more years of life while playing cards is part of Bavarian identity. But composer Christian Auer and librettist Karl-Heinz Hummel haven’t simply wrapped the whole thing up in wonderful songs. A creative exploration of Bavarian folklore breathes new life into the story.

LOVE FOR THE BAVARIAN HOMELAND

In heaven, a lot is in flux, driving St. Peter, the gatekeeper, nearly to despair. Now even the usually reliable Boandlkramer is being taken advantage of. Brandner is reveling in the extra years of life he’s gained—but will this end well? Fortunately, with the help of Rockadirl, the Weather Witch, and Trud, Boandlkramer manages to make Brandner clearly feel the limits of old age. So Boandlkramer is finally able to persuade him to at least take a peek into paradise on a trial basis. Will he stay? That remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: *Brandner Kaspar* is a deeply comedic musical with wonderful, catchy songs and brimming with love for the Bavarian homeland.

Fotos ©  Susanne Brill