From Conan to feminism: Vienna’s Kosmos Theatre at 25 and Beyond
Can a former porn cinema, once home to Arnold Schwarzenegger’s “Conan the Barbarian,” truly become a bastion of feminist theater? In Vienna, the Kosmos Theater proves it can, and its journey offers a compelling glimpse into the future of feminist expression on stage.
The Legacy of Naked Fury: A Feminist Foundation
The Kosmos Theater,born from “naked fury” 25 years ago,initially occupied a vacant porn cinema before finding its home in the former Kosmos-Kino. This symbolic shift from hyper-masculinity to feminist discourse set the stage for a quarter-century of provocative and politically charged performances.
A Quarter Century of Resistance
Founded as Kosmos-Frauenraum (Kosmos Women’s Space) and later renamed Kosmos Theater, the venue has been a vital platform for feminist voices. Founding director Barbara Klein, honored with the Golden Merit Badge of Vienna, laid the groundwork for a theater that challenges norms and sparks dialog. Veronika Steinböck later took over the artistic direction,continuing the legacy.
Debates and Directions: What Does Feminist Theater Mean Today?
The theater’s 25th-anniversary celebrations included a lively panel discussion, “Wutentbrannt kaltgestellt? Feministischer Widerstand – heutig oder von gestern?” (“Furious, sidelined? Feminist Resistance – today or yesterday?”). the discussion tackled complex questions about the evolution of feminism and its portrayal in art.
Navigating Modern Feminism
The panelists grappled with issues like the co-option of feminism by advertising (“Body Positivity” to “Boss Girls”), the impact of female political leaders like Giorgia Meloni and Marine Le Pen, and the core message of contemporary feminism: “Women in power, feminists in power, or no power for anyone?”
Kosmos Theater: A Hub for the Free Theater Scene
Today, the Kosmos Theater is a crucial hub for Vienna’s autonomous theater scene. It tackles pressing political issues head-on, as seen in productions like aslı Kışlal’s “Nach der Wahl sind wir nicht mehr so lustig. Eigentlich hätte es eine Komödie werden sollen” (“After the election, we’re not so funny anymore. It should have been a comedy”), which dissected the aftermath of Austria’s national election and the FPÖ’s failed bid for power.
Confronting Contemporary Issues
The theater’s programming includes both thoughtful and provocative works.Elisabeth Gabriel’s “Der junge Mann” (“The Young Man”), based on annie Ernaux’s Nobel Prize-winning account of an affair with a younger student, offers a nuanced exploration of female desire. Mateja meded’s “Fotzenschleimpower gegen Raubtierkaputtalismus” (“Cunt Slime Power against Predator Capitalism”) is a raw and furious critique of the art world, delivered with a glitzy, high-energy performance.
“Die Milchfrau” and Sara Ostertag’s Vision
Sara Ostertag, a rising star in the Viennese theater scene, has substantially impacted the Kosmos Theater. Known for her work with the group makemake, Ostertag has staged acclaimed productions like “Das große Heft” (based on Ágota Kristóf’s novel), “Alte Meisterin” (about painter Maria Lassnig), and the tarot-musical “Run Wild In It.”
Feminist Actionism on Stage
Ostertag’s productions frequently enough feature naked bodies, paint explosions, and other elements reminiscent of Viennese Actionism, but with a distinctly feminist twist.Her collaboration with Florentina Holzinger, an “Extremperformerin,” further solidifies this connection. Ostertag served as dramaturg for Holzinger’s opera performance “Sancta,” which was invited to the prestigious Theatertreffen festival.
Her work, like Holzinger’s, can be seen as a feminist reinterpretation of Viennese Actionism, a performance art movement known for its radical and often shocking displays.
“Die Milchfrau”: A Musical Exploration of Poverty and Prostitution
ostertag’s “Die Milchfrau” (“The Milk Woman”) is based on Alja Rachmanowa’s autobiographical novel “Milchfrau in Ottakring.” Published in 1933, the book became a sensation, and Ostertag, along with musician Paul Plut, has transformed it into a musical featuring choral and pop elements. The story explores poverty, prostitution, and the brutal realities of a society where “business, like the water in the stage basin, becomes increasingly dirty and toxic.”
ostertag’s Next Chapter: A New Theater in Gumpendorfer Straße
While Ostertag directs at other venues, her work has become synonymous with the Kosmos Theater. However, her time there is coming to an end. Starting this fall, ostertag will take over her own small theater in Gumpendorfer straße, marking one of many exciting new appointments in Vienna’s cultural landscape.
“14.000 Kilo”: Body shaming and the White Whale
The Kosmos Theater’s upcoming premiere, “14.000 Kilo. Ein Abnehmkampf frei nach ‚Moby Dick‘” (“14,000 Kilos. A Weight Loss Struggle Freely Based on ‘Moby Dick'”), promises to be another thought-provoking production. Director and author Maria Sendlhofer draws parallels between captain Ahab’s obsessive pursuit of the white whale and young women’s desire to lose weight.
Challenging Body Image Norms
The play explores the language surrounding weight, questioning whether “mehrgewichtig” (overweight), “dick” (fat), or even “fett” (fat) are the appropriate terms. This production marks Sendlhofer’s third collaboration with the Kosmos Theater, known for its diverse and often playful approach to feminist theater.
The Future of Feminist Theater: A Look Ahead
The Kosmos theater’s journey reflects the evolving landscape of feminist theater. It’s a space where artists grapple with complex issues, challenge societal norms, and create dialogue through provocative and engaging performances. As Sara Ostertag embarks on her new venture and the Kosmos Theater continues its mission, the future of feminist theater in Vienna – and beyond – looks luminous.
FAQ: Feminist Theater and the Kosmos Theater
What is feminist theater?
Feminist theater is a theatrical movement that aims to challenge patriarchal structures and promote gender equality through storytelling, performance, and representation.
What makes the Kosmos Theater unique?
The Kosmos Theater is unique due to its history as a former porn cinema turned feminist hub, its commitment to showcasing diverse feminist voices, and its willingness to tackle controversial and politically charged topics.
How does the Kosmos Theater support emerging artists?
The Kosmos Theater provides a platform for emerging artists through premieres, original productions, and collaborations with established figures like Sara Ostertag.
What are some common themes in feminist theater?
Common themes in feminist theater include gender roles, body image, sexuality, power dynamics, and social justice.
Where can I learn more about the Kosmos Theater?
You can visit the Kosmos Theater’s website (kosmostheater.at) for data on upcoming productions, events, and the theater’s history.
Pros and Cons of Feminist Theater
Pros:
- Challenges societal norms and promotes critical thinking.
- Provides a platform for marginalized voices and perspectives.
- Encourages dialogue and raises awareness about vital social issues.
- Offers empowering and inspiring narratives for women and other underrepresented groups.
cons:
- Can be perceived as divisive or alienating by some audiences.
- Might potentially be limited in its reach due to its focus on specific issues.
- Can be subject to criticism for being overly didactic or preachy.
- May face challenges in securing funding and support due to its political nature.
the Kosmos Theater’s story is a testament to the power of art to transform spaces and challenge perspectives. From its unlikely beginnings in a former porn cinema to its current role as a vital hub for feminist expression, the theater continues to push boundaries and inspire dialogue. As Sara Ostertag embarks on her new chapter and the Kosmos Theater looks ahead, the future of feminist theater in Vienna – and around the world – remains a vibrant and evolving landscape.
