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Tragic event in Salzburg: Death of a billionaire 800 times over

Salzburg's long-standing stage shout of 'death' within an unconventional play continues to stir controversy. This year marks a significant anniversary for the acknowledged production, which has showcased numerous renowned stars.

Massive Loss: Repeated Demises of Super-Wealthy Residents in Salzburg, Eight Hundred Fold
Massive Loss: Repeated Demises of Super-Wealthy Residents in Salzburg, Eight Hundred Fold

Tragic event in Salzburg: Death of a billionaire 800 times over

In the heart of Salzburg, the annual festival is set to host the 800th performance of Hugo von Hofmannsthal's iconic play, "Jedermann - The Play of the Death of the Rich Man". This thought-provoking production, a co-founder of the Salzburg Festival, has been captivating audiences for over a century.

The play revolves around Jedermann, a wealthy man who is suddenly reminded of his impending death. This stark reminder triggers a series of events leading to his remorse, confession of faith, and descent into the grave as a converted Christian. The role of Jedermann has been played by a diverse array of talented actors, with Attila Hörbiger, Maximilian Schell, Klaus Maria Brandauer, Ulrich Tukur, Tobias Moretti, and Lars Eidinger among the notable names.

In a remarkable turn of events, the youngest actor to play Jedermann was Nicholas Ofczarek, who was just 39 when he took on the role from 2010 to 2012. Conversely, Cornelius Obonya performed the role 62 years after his grandfather Attila Hörbiger last did so, for 54 performances.

The play also features the character of Buhlschaft, a role that has been played by almost 40 different actresses since 1920. In the 2023 production, the Swiss actress Deleila Piasko will take on the role. Known for her roles in ARD miniseries "Die Zweiflers" and ZDF series "Der Schatten", Piasko promises to bring a unique interpretation to the character.

Abstract concepts such as "faith," "death," "devil," "mammon," and "works" (good deeds) appear as personifications in "Jedermann", adding depth and complexity to the narrative. The devil, in particular, is a central figure, expressing disappointment in the play: "The world is stupid, mean, and evil - And might always goes before right - If one is honest, loyal, and wise - They are mastered by deceit and lies."

The "Jedermann" performances are a rare treat, with only a few shows each year. This year, the play will be performed on August 25th, marking another milestone in its long and storied history. As the curtain rises on another performance of "Jedermann", audiences will be reminded of the enduring power of this thought-provoking play.

Meanwhile, the "Tatort" television series, with over 1,300 episodes after about 55 years, continues to captivate audiences with its gripping stories. And the debate surrounding "Jedermann" shows no signs of abating, as audiences and critics alike continue to grapple with its profound themes and messages.

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