A rhythmic–gymnastic essay by and with Mervan Malwin Ürkmez
DIRECTED BY: Mervan Malwin Ürkmez
SCHIFFBAU BOX
PREMIERE: 09.10.2026
50 minutes to 1 hour
As a child, Mervan Malwin Ürkmez wasn’t allowed to enrol in the school’s rhythmic gymnastics class – just because he was a boy. Today, the actor fulfils a childhood dream and embarks on an experiment with his self-directed production: for a year, he undergoes intensive training in rhythmic gymnastics, while also undertaking an extensive research journey. In conversations with numerous experts, he examines processes of transformation in nature and society, as well as the individual and collective uncertainties prompted by the overlapping crises and upheavals of our time. The result is a personal yet deeply political gymnastics performance about the power to overcome fear, the search for hope – and the beauty of colourful, flowing ribbons as an answer to darkness. Or, as Rihanna puts it: “We found love in a hopeless place.”
Our ensemble member Mervan Malwin Ürkmez brings his acclaimed solo work to the Schauspielhaus Zürich, inviting audiences to an evening that goes straight to the heart.
INTERVIEW PARTICIPANTS
Christian Berg, Andreas Exner, Ulrich Foelsche, Lain Iwakura, Leona Strakerjahn, Sophia Vater, Max Zirngast, Die rhythmische Sportgymnastinnen der GUG Graz
A production by the Schauspielhaus Graz
Eva Seiler
SENSORY NOTE
The final five minutes of the performance feature loud music.