Berlin audiences will soon have the opportunity to experience the life and legacy of Hedy Lamarr through a new monodrama, “Hedy Kiesler Lamarr,” premiering May 3, 2026, at Zimmer 16. The production, featuring actress Gina Pietsch and musician Bardo Henning, weaves together songs by iconic composers like Bertolt Brecht, Hanns Eisler, Erich Kästner and others, to illuminate the multifaceted story of the Austrian-American actress and inventor.
Lamarr, born Hedwig Eva Maria Kiesler in Vienna on November 9, 1914, was far more than just a Hollywood star. While achieving fame for her roles in over 30 films, she also possessed a keen scientific mind. During World War II, she co-invented a frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology with composer George Antheil, initially intended to guide torpedoes without being jammed by the enemy. This groundbreaking work, largely unrecognized for decades, earned her a posthumous induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2014 according to Wikipedia.
From Silver Screen to Secret Weapon
The monodrama draws a connection between Lamarr’s early life and her inventive spirit, referencing a shared moment with Ernst Busch, a German actor and singer, in Alexis Granowsky’s 1931 film, “Die Koffer des Herrn O.F.” In the film, Busch sang a song to a text by Erich Kästner, reflecting on the illusory nature of reality. The production notes suggest this early encounter foreshadowed the complexities of Lamarr’s own life, a life that often blurred the lines between performance and genuine innovation.
Lamarr’s path to Hollywood began after appearing in the 1931 film “Man braucht kein Geld” (You Don’t Need Money) alongside Heinz Rühmann and Hans Moser. She was described by the Interessanten Blatt as “provisionally pretty and probably also talented” as reported by Wikipedia. Soon after, she set her sights on a career in the United States, a move that would ultimately lead to both cinematic success and a largely hidden contribution to wartime technology.
Rediscovering a Forgotten Pioneer
For many years, Lamarr’s scientific achievements were overshadowed by her glamorous Hollywood persona. Gina Pietsch’s work, as highlighted by the Ernst Busch Society, aims to rectify this historical imbalance, bringing Lamarr’s story back into the spotlight. The monodrama isn’t simply a biographical retelling; it’s a re-examination of a woman who defied categorization, excelling in both the artistic and scientific realms.
The event, organized by the Ernst Busch Society, promises a unique blend of theatrical performance and musical interpretation. The selection of songs by Brecht, Eisler, Henning, Hollaender, and Kästner suggests a deliberate attempt to contextualize Lamarr’s life within the broader socio-political landscape of the 20th century. These composers, known for their socially conscious and often critical works, provide a fitting backdrop for exploring the complexities of a woman who challenged conventional expectations.
Event Details and Ticketing
“Hedy Kiesler Lamarr” will be performed on May 3, 2026, at Zimmer 16 in Berlin. Tickets are currently available for purchase through visitberlin.de. The production features Gina Pietsch in the title role, accompanied by Bardo Henning. The event offers a compelling opportunity to engage with the story of a remarkable woman whose contributions extended far beyond the world of cinema.
The story of Hedy Lamarr serves as a potent reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of women in science and technology. Her legacy continues to inspire, and this monodrama promises to be a moving tribute to her enduring spirit of innovation and artistic expression. The event is a key date for those interested in the intersection of art, history, and the untold stories of remarkable individuals.
Further information about the Ernst Busch Society and upcoming events can be found on their website. The society’s dedication to preserving and promoting the legacy of artists like Ernst Busch and Hedy Lamarr ensures that their stories will continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.
The next confirmed step is the performance on May 3, 2026, at Zimmer 16. For those interested in attending, tickets are available now.
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