Poetic Reflection on Modern Society: 'Modus Vivendi'

Odeon [ENA] In the heart of Vienna, the Odeon Theater presents the Modus Vivendi performance, a compelling new production by the Serapions Theater under the direction of Max Kaufmann. Premiering on March 27, 2025, this performance offers a poetic and ironic exploration of contemporary society, delving into the narratives we construct, the behaviors we emulate, and the images we perpetuate.

Modus Vivendi unfolds in a city under renovation, populated by structures and artifacts disconnected from their origins. This setting serves as a metaphor for a society caught in repetitive cycles, where even our utopian visions are tainted by a lack of perspective, making scenarios of decline seem more tangible than transformative change.​ The Serapions Ensemble, featuring performers such as Elvis Alieva, Julio Cesar Manfugás Foster, and Ana Grigalashvili, delivers a nuanced portrayal of a society in flux. Their performances encapsulate the tension between individual agency and collective inertia, bringing depth to the production's thematic concerns.

The production's visual and auditory elements are the result of a collaborative effort. Max Kaufmann and Eva Grün's stage design, Mirjam Mercedes Salzer's costumes, and the lighting by Vedran Mandic and Kaufmann himself, create an immersive atmosphere. Mario Bergamasco's musical compositions and sound mastering, along with Johannes D. Schneider's piano accompaniment, further enrich the sensory experience. Modus Vivendi is part of the Serapions Theater's 45th-anniversary celebration. An accompanying exhibition at the Odeon Theater offers insights into the company's history, showcasing handcrafted costumes and set designs from past productions, allowing audiences to appreciate the theater's artistic journey .​ ​