
A gripping journey into the future and the soul: “Kim” at the Freie Bühne Wieden
With "Kim", the Freie Bühne Wieden will be bringing an innovative and touching play to the stage from January 2025, aimed equally at young people and adults. The work by Austrian author Flo Staffelmayr addresses the balancing act between humanity and technology, loneliness and relationships - and dares to take a look into the world of tomorrow. The production, directed by Michaela Ehrenstein, promises a captivating examination of current and timeless questions in our society. The story centers on sixteen-year-old Lotte, who is forced to leave her home and start a new life in a foreign city. To make ends meet, she takes a job at the institute of the eccentric Professor Wilhelm. He is working on a groundbreaking development: an artificial intelligence that is intended to support people as a social companion. This AI is called "Kim" and is initially viewed with skepticism by Lotte. But Kim not only convinces with her attractive appearance, but also with surprisingly sensitive conversations. An unusual relationship develops between Lotte and Kim, which gives Lotte comfort and guidance. But how deep can a connection between man and machine really go? And what responsibility does man have towards the technology he creates? The play unfolds as an exploration of these questions and does not provide easy answers, but rather encourages the audience to think. A sensitive production with a strong cast The production is directed by Michaela Ehrenstein, who emphasizes the emotional facets of the characters with her sensitive direction. The stage by Martin Gesslbauer draws a minimalist,