Hamburg's Thalia Theater sparks outrage with far-right voices on stage
The Thalia Theater in Hamburg has faced intense backlash over its recent production, Prozess gegen Deutschland, directed by Milo Rau. The play included far-right voices, sparking distress among staff and calls for a left-wing response.
Employees reported emotional turmoil after encountering participants who openly defended far-right views on stage. The theatre's management has since offered individual counselling but stopped short of introducing broader measures like a counter-programme.
The controversy centres on the play's inclusion of AfD supporter Feroz Khan and journalist Frédéric Schwilden, both of whom defended far-right positions during performances. Theatre educator Nora Patyk described a climate of 'unease and fear' among staff, admitting she felt 'deeply unsettled' after meeting Schwilden. Other employees expressed outrage, with some calling the presence of far-right figures on stage a 'violation' and demanding a 'left-wing counterprogram'.
Artistic director Sonja Anders defended the production, arguing that exposing the institution to right-wing perspectives was necessary. She also acknowledged her responsibility toward staff, many of whom grew up under neo-Nazi influences and carry traumatic experiences. Director Milo Rau stood firm, insisting that the cultural sector could no longer ignore political realities. In response to the uproar, the theatre's management offered one-on-one counselling sessions to affected employees. Reports indicated that some staff were left in tears after witnessing the play's far-right participants. However, as of March 2026, no further action—such as a formal counter-programme—has been announced.
The Thalia Theater's decision to stage Prozess gegen Deutschland has left staff divided and emotionally affected. While counselling has been provided, the lack of additional measures means tensions remain unresolved. The debate over how cultural institutions should engage with far-right voices continues unanswered.
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