The CPH STAGE, Denmark’s premier theater festival, has commenced and will run throughout May, offering a wide array of performances in Copenhagen and Frederiksberg. This year’s catalog showcases a diverse range of productions, encouraging audiences to explore new and potentially unfamiliar theatrical experiences. Despite ongoing logistical and financial challenges in fully realizing its ambition, the festival has successfully enhanced its international presence while continuing to feature productions from local theater repertoires.
Dansk Danseteater’s “Bloody Moon,” a dance performance exploring themes of eroticism and sensuality, is being presented at the Royal Theater. Originally premiered at Ofelia Plads last summer, the performance, choreographed by Dansk Danseteater’s artistic director Marina Mascarell, features dancers in vibrant costumes set to percussion rhythms by Uffe Savery of Safri Duo. “Bloody Moon” is described as a tribute to life based on the work of French thinker George Bataille.
The Royal Theater is also staging “Feberen” (The Fever), a new Danish musical that celebrates five rebellious sisters who scandalized society with their variety show around the turn of the century. The musical, which has garnered positive reviews, carries a feminist message. The Royal Theater’s creation of this original Danish musical is viewed as a significant achievement, and it is hoped that the production will be widely seen.
Teatret Fix & Foxy’s “Landsbyen” (The Village) addresses globalization by bringing the world onto the stage. Directed by Tue Biering, the performance aims to confront audiences with the realities of a shrinking world characterized by inequalities. The cast performs in Copenhagen and also connects with individuals in L.A., Mumbai, Lagos, and Istanbul.
Gruppe 38’s “Sangen om Oda og Anton” (The Song of Oda and Anton), winner of the Reumert Award for best children’s or youth performance, is being presented at Teater V. The play, written by Lars Dammark, tells the story of Oda and Anton, an ordinary couple who support each other through life’s challenges. The performance emphasizes the importance of hope, togetherness, and love.
Nina Rask stars in “Nina er sjov” (Nina is Funny) at Nørrebro Teater, using her personal experiences to challenge stereotypes. Known for her fluid gender identity and queer consciousness, Rask offers a unique perspective on societal norms. The show challenges the world and the stand-up format.