Die Seherin by Milo Rau

Wiener FestWochen [ENA] Milo Rau's Die Seherin, which premiered at the 2025 Wiener Festwochen, is a compelling monologue that delves into the psychological and ethical complexities of war photography. Drawing inspiration from Sophocles' Philoctetes, the production examines the fragility of human certainties in the face of violence and trauma. Ursina Lardi delivers a powerful performance as a war photographer.

She traverses global conflict zones, capturing images of suffering while seemingly remaining detached. Her portrayal evolves as the character confronts personal experiences of violence, transforming into a modern-day Cassandra who challenges societal blindness to ongoing atrocities. The production is enriched by the inclusion of Azad Hassan, an Iraqi teacher who suffered under the Islamic State's regime, appearing via video. His testimony adds authenticity and depth, bridging the gap between staged narrative and real-world events.

Anton Lukas's minimalist set and costume design, combined with Elia Rediger's soundscapes and Moritz von Dungern's video projections, create an immersive environment that underscores the play's themes. Stefan Ebelsberger's lighting design further accentuates the emotional landscape, guiding the audience through the protagonist's internal journey. Performed in German and Arabic with German and English surtitles, Die Seherin confronts viewers with the seductive nature of violence and the role of art in processing collective trauma. Rau's direction challenges audiences to reflect on the ethical responsibilities of witnessing and representing suffering.