Die letzten Tage der Menschheit

Between 1915 and 1922, Karl Kraus wrote the extensive drama THE LAST DAYS OF HUMANITY. In over 200 scenes, the First World War is portrayed in a manner as profound as it is absurd: from the delusion of politicians and deliberate disinformation by the press to the dull indifference of the population. Kraus relentlessly exposes how the intertwining of power interests and war propaganda, together with an opportunistic society, makes the madness of war possible in the first place.

Director Dušan David Pařízek creates a new version of the material, long considered “unperformable“ and originally intended by Kraus himself not for an earthly but for a “Martian theater.“

program

Die letzten Tage der Menschheit
von Karl Kraus

Place

Wiener Burgtheater – The Stage of Great Drama and Timeless Classics

The Wiener Burgtheater, often referred to as Austria’s "first stage," is one of the most prestigious and influential German-speaking theaters in Europe. Founded in 1741, it has shaped the theatrical landscape for centuries, standing for artistic excellence, literary classics, and contemporary productions.

Located on Vienna’s Ringstrasse, the Burgtheater is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a place where great playwrights such as Goethe, Schiller, Shakespeare, Arthur Schnitzler, Thomas Bernhard, and Elfriede Jelinek come to life through groundbreaking performances. With its renowned ensemble and innovative direction, the theater masterfully combines tradition with modernity, captivating thousands of theatergoers every year.

Getting There by Public Transport

Subway:

• U2 – Rathaus station (approx. 5-minute walk)

Tram:

• Lines 1, D, 71 – Rathausplatz/Burgtheater stop
• Lines 2, 46 – Dr.-Karl-Renner-Ring stop

Bus:

• Line 13A – Theater in der Josefstadt stop (approx. 10-minute walk)

Thanks to its prime location on Vienna’s Ringstrasse, the Burgtheater is easily accessible by public transport.

Burgtheater Vienna – Where Theater Comes to Life at the Highest Level

With its stunning productions, world-class ensemble, and rich history, the Burgtheater Vienna is the beating heart of Austria’s cultural scene and an absolute must for those who love the magic of theater.