For over a century the “Tellspiele” (William Tell Open Air Theatre) in Interlaken have been showcasing the captivating tales of our hero William Tell and the beginnings of Switzerland. These special open air performances unfold in a setting featuring a large cast of actors and real animals.
The Tell plays have their roots in 1912, when Schillers “William Tell” was first staged as an open air production in Matten near Interlaken. Since then this cultural tradition in the Bernese Oberland region has evolved into a cultural gem. William Tell has left an enduring mark on culture like no other literary work and the stage at Tellspiele Interlaken vividly portrays Switzerlands history with authenticity and allure.
In the show “Tell Mut Macht Mythos” by Tiziana Sarro and Klemens Brysch the iconic events such as shooting the apple, the Rütli Oath and Hohle Gasse are presented in a manner. The storyline from Schillers drama is intertwined with a group of students bridging past events, with times. This infusion adds humor to the play while also bringing resonance.
The Tellspiele Interlaken thus not only offer an impressive theatrical experience, but also a lively connection to the rich history of Switzerland and its legendary heroic figure, William Tell.
William Tell Theatre Interlaken on the open-air stage
The Tell plays are held at the open air theater, where a unique “Tell play family” is formed by over 140 actors, including both known and beloved figures from the amateur acting community. The captivating spectacle features not people but horses, cows and goats that transform the scenic natural stage in the “Rugenwald zu Matten” into a remarkable and thrilling setting.
During each performance a farmer guides his adorned cows in the Alpine procession to the Tell play area while a group of goats completes the charming scene. Up to 18 horses participate in the show adding an engaging dynamic to the stage and enhancing the overall experience.
The production of the Tell play stays true to Schillers text to deliver a performance that lingers in memory. Simultaneously it offers a perspective on society while fostering close connections with both participants and viewers. This approach presents William Tells timeless tale, in a light enabling audiences to engage deeply with its themes.
With a setting, as the backdrop and a vibrant ensemble of amateur actors and animal performers the Tell plays offer an enchanting and memorable theatrical journey that vividly portrays the tale and legacy of William Tell in a distinctive manner.
Video of the rustic Oberland (Tellspiele Interlaken)
Amateur actors have been staging the legend of William Tell in Matten near Interlaken for over a hundred years.
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Video Tellspiele Interlaken – DVD trailer anniversary production 100 years of Tellspiele
Trailer for the DVD Tellspiele Interlaken.
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