Premiere of Mozart's Abduction in Neustrelitz: kebab instead of the Mediterranean!

Premiere of Mozart's Abduction in Neustrelitz: kebab instead of the Mediterranean!

Things are getting exciting at the Landestheater Neustrelitz: On November 22nd, Mozart's musical play “The Abduction from the Seraglio” will celebrate its premiere - but not in the usual setting. Instead of the Mediterranean coast, the action is moved to a kebab shop. The music journalist and filmmaker Axel Brüggemann brings this fresh perspective to the stage. Fans of the work can look forward to a little variety from the classical opera world.

The transformation of the stage design not only amazes, but also addresses current social issues. In particular, cultural appropriation and the changes in images between Turks and Germans are examined. The kebab shop is operated by none other than Sascha Pelim, a petty criminal who previously ran a curry shop, but it went bankrupt. This carefully staged constellation promises to both entertain and make you think.

A first look behind the scenes

Anyone who is curious about the new concept can come to the matinee in the State Theater on November 9th at 11 a.m. In this first glimpse, the directing team and the soloists will perform musical samples. The stage and costume design will also be presented. Admission to the matinee is free, making it a perfect opportunity not to miss the spectacle.

Aside from the premiere, the production will also be seen on several other dates: November 29th and December 19th at 7:30 p.m. and January 4th, 2026 and February 14th, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be booked both by phone and online - and it's worth it, because the mix of classical music and modern city life could bring a whole new dimension to the work created by Mozart.

Cultural appropriation in focus

A central theme of the production is cultural appropriation. According to various studies, this is seen as the adoption of expressions and artifacts from another culture, although the assessment usually depends on the motivation of the respective adopter. In particular, the adoption of cultural elements by members of more dominant cultures without approval or recognition is often viewed critically. Cultural appropriation can have both positive and negative connotations and leads to lively debates about identity and respect for minorities.

The discussion of cultural appropriation also highlights ethical aspects, including the potentially negative commercialization of cultural expressions. Critics warn against a trivialization of cultural identity, while others argue that cultures influence each other and forms of cultural exchange are necessary.

The present production of “The Abduction from the Seraglio” not only marks an exciting approach to theater, but also offers a space for deeper insights into the complexity of cultural dynamics in a multicultural society.