(Auf)Begehren

About the Performance

Is redistribution desirable?

In these times of social division, (Auf)Begehren (Begehren=desire / Aufbegehren= revolt) explores practices of mobilization, of solidarity and coexistence. Questions of social justice are playfully examined through performative means. Together with members of Ausweg Rhein-Neckar e.V., Arens/Schädler/Ueberschär are developing “Mascots of the Extremes and Convergences of Desires / Revolts” that are inspired by the experiences of social hardship and poverty, as well as those of seductive promises made by populist groups. 

“We have asked ourselves why social justice seems to be so undesirable for so many people. Over and over again, policies that would ensure a more equal distribution of resources seem to be unappealing. On the contrary, political movements that strive to make the current situation even worse are resonating especially by those affected the most.

We view theater and art as a simulation chamber for alternative realities and futures. Here, we can create scenes that test the questions: what would happen if redistribution was condoned by social consensus? What would happen to those that go against that consensus?

In times where social divisions are constantly growing (this is even true inside progressive movements), we want to explore practices of mobilization, solidarity and coexistence through art. This calls for spaces where not only collective futures can be created, but also delectable exaggerations – so these spaces can also become places of collective storytelling, shared fantasizing and fabulating. Since Kupfer was established as a meeting place in Neckarstadt-West, Ausweg e.V. has created a place in Mannheim where solidarity and coexistence can be practiced. This has enabled us with (Auf)Begehren to forge new connections between art and social life in Mannheim.” (Arens/Schädler/Ueberschär)

What can you expect? 

A format that is both artistic and activistic in a public space – one that playfully goes overboard. 

Cast & Credits:

Charlotte Arens / concept, dramaturgy, social justice, set design / Mannheim
Jasmin Schädler / concept, performative strategies, A-V media recording / Stuttgart
Elisa Ueberschär / performative strategies, performance, voice / Jena
Ausweg e. V. / Michael Dester / community work, project management / Mannheim

https://jasmin-schaedler.com/about 
https://elisa-ueberschaer.de/vita 
https://www.ausweg-rhein-neckar.de 

_{Photo © Schwindelfrei}