Theatermanufaktur Dresden
"The Golden Taler"

Puppet theatre with a play based on Hans Fallada’s work

The search for happiness is no easy task – this is what Anna Barbara discovers
as she sets out in search of the Golden Taler. Along the way, she encounters some bizarre characters: the gaunt Mr Greed, his faithful grey horse Unverzagt, and a highly agile little cleaning sprite.

Arguably the best-known of Fallada’s stories from the Murkelei is an exciting fairy tale for young and old alike.

Anna Barbara lives with her grandmother, who repeatedly tells her about the Golden Taler, which is said to bring happiness into one’s life. Whilst searching for it, the girl encounters the strange Mr Geiz and his grey horse Unverzagt.

He promises Anna Barbara the Golden Taler if she works for him for three years. In his underground kingdom, there are many things that people simply throw away; it is lit by glow-worms and guarded by two dogs. The girl is to spend the three years polishing copper, silver and gold coins.

Anna Barbara’s only help comes from a tiny little man who lives in the cleaning water and has the ability to make it more effective. However, the little cleaner calls her ‘my darling’ and wants to marry her. At first, Anna Barbara laughs at him terribly for it…

Will Anna Barbara find the golden taler? Will she find happiness?

The fantastical and curious elements of the story promise exciting theatre full of secrets and adventures – accompanied by music from the singing clarinet.

Suitable for children aged [years] and over.

Playwright: Bianka Heuser
Director: Jörg Bretschneider
Set design: Julia Beyer / Matthias Hänsel