The Caucasian Chalk Circle

"The Caucasian Chalk Circle" by Bertolt Brecht is a key work of epic theatre that encourages critical reflection. In this production by the Kammerspiele, the central conflict revolves around a child: during a political uprising, the governoress Natella flees and leaves her son Michel behind. The maid Grusche takes the child in and embarks on a grueling escape to protect it from the revolutionaries. Years later, Natella returns and demands the child back as heir to a fortune. The cunning village judge Azdak, known for his trickery, must decide who the true mother is—and draws a chalk circle to resolve the question in a practical way.

Bertolt Brecht’s play combines social critique with an unconventional narrative style that creates distance and invites reflection on justice. Christiane Mudra’s production highlights female perspectives and sheds light on themes such as poverty, flight, and motherhood. A play that raises timeless questions while also making the power of epic theatre tangible.