Nesterval

With its productions, the queer theater ensemble Nesterval transforms temporary venues into immersive parallel worlds – turning even those with no interest in theater into devoted fans. Following their completely sold-out immersive hits from Baakenhöft to the Museumsdorf Volksdorf at previous festival editions, the Viennese group returns with their sixth Summer Festival production – and, as their latest coup, presents a world premiere on the MS Stubnitz: DAS SCHIFF begins like a film, as the luxury yacht MS Nesterval runs into distress on its way home and is rescued by the MS Stubnitz. What follows is a social experiment set between the engine room and the captain’s table, blending elements of White Lotus, Love Boat and Triangle of Sadness. While the stranded yacht’s passengers attempt to maintain their glamour, their pretensions are tested by headwinds, and the boundaries between the upper and lower decks begin to blur. The audience becomes part of the crew and witnesses how a rescue mission turns into a journey into the depths of human depravity. As always, Nesterval, whose permanent ensemble now includes performers from Hamburg, weaves together historical contexts, pop culture and political realities into a theatrical spectacle with addictive appeal.