Traditional Krampus-Nicholas Play Returns

Back by popular demand, we’ll again present an English-language production of an authentic 19th-century Alpine “Nicholas play,” style of folk play presented on St. Nicholas day featuring the Krampus (and believed to be an original source of the tradition).  In 2014 UNESCO recognized the “Nicholas play” (Nikolausspiel) as an element of Austria’s “intangible cultural heritage,” or in the parlance of the UN, a “Human Treasure.”  Our December 13 Los Angeles presentation is a composite of several village plays, incorporating not only the Krampus and Nicholas, but also a juicy tirade by the Prince of Hell, the “Lucifer Sermon,” usually presented as a standalone act, as well as “Death and the Youth” featuring an exceedingly clueless young man stalked by a remorseless Reaper. Below are photos from the 2014 production set in the Gothic revival Church of the Angels, our venue again in 2015.  More info on the play and tickets here.


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