On February 28, 2025, the beloved television show "Mainz bleibt Mainz, wie es singt und lacht" kicked off its 70th anniversary celebration, captivating audiences with its unique blend of humor, music, and sharp political satire. Known as the "mother of all TV sessions," this year's show promised to uphold the traditions of Mainzer Fastnacht, delivering laughter and poignant commentary from the stage of the Kurfürstliches Schloss.
The event began with the show's new "Till," Florian Sitte, who humorously addressed the current political scene. From the outset, he struck a chord with viewers, declaring, "Solange es gilt, das freie Narrenwort, bleibt Mainz ein ganz besond’rer Ort," emphasizing the show's legacy of free expression. He didn’t hold back as he poked fun at prominent politicians, skillfully merging humor with critique. Examples of his witty remarks included denouncing how some government officials seem out of touch with the everyday citizen. Sitte captured the spirit of the evening, reminding the audience of the importance of voicing one's thoughts, saying, "Ein Standpunkt, der uns Narren ehrt: ein jeder Mensch ist gleich viel wert."
The show has been engaging viewers since 1955, when it first aired as "Mainz, wie es singt und lacht." Over the decades, the format has evolved, yet the heart of Mainz’s carnival spirit remains intact. The anniversary festivities included stirring performances from various beloved figures of the Fastnacht tradition. This year, notable participants included 82-year-old Margit Sponheimer, who provided the evening's emotional highlight with her performance of "Rosenmontag," generating immense applause and nostalgia among the attendees.
Another poignant moment occurred when the nostalgia-themed segment resurrected memories of past stars, with Rolf Braun making a rare appearance. While some of the legendary figures of past shows have passed on, their spirits linger, celebrating the enduring nature of this festive form of satire.
Adding to the evening’s energy was Kati Greule's captivating "Polit-Kita" segment, which framed political figures as children. With great humor, she portrayed Olaf Scholz, Robert Habeck, and others as misbehaving toddlers, cleverly commenting on the chaos within the current political climate. Greule noted, "Dich könnte man in Berlin gerade gut gebrauchen für die Koalitionsverhandlungen," teasingly addressing the need for maturity among political leaders.
The show wasn’t without its share of controversy, particularly surrounding the late decision to remove Thomas Becker's segment as "Motivationsberater." SWR editor Günther Dudek explained the sudden change was made for timing issues, indicating they perhaps overestimated the audience's interest post-election. While Becker’s contributions were missed, his appearances throughout the evening with the Schnorreswackler and as part of the ensemble helped maintain the show’s rhythm.
Political humor took center stage as Lars Reichow, known for his bold comedic critiques, whipped the audience with both laughter and discomfort during his performances. Acknowledging the sensitive times, he remarked, "Wir leben heut, ihr Leut, in einer neuen Biedermeierzeit: Niemand traut sich mehr, was zu sagen," reflecting on the current climate of political correctness. Such commentary kept the audience engaged and aware of the struggles inherent in balancing humor with sensitivity.
The response from the audience was overwhelmingly positive, with many performances eliciting standing ovations. Attendees were particularly enchanted by the energetic acts from group performances, such as the Mainzer Hofsänger and the vibrant routines from the TSG Schott ballet team, which provided brilliant visual joy through their rendition of "Alice im Wunderland." Seating overjoyed audience members seamlessly blended nostalgia with contemporary joy.
Despite minor technical glitches early on, which momentarily impeded some performances, the overall flow of the evening was commendable. Adi Guckelsberger, stepping up as the substitute for long-time president Andreas Schmitt, guided the audience through the evening with charisma and ease, ensuring the celebratory atmosphere remained buoyant.
It is clear from the roaring laughter and joyful environment generated during the show, "Mainz bleibt Mainz" continues to thrive even after 70 years. There is no mistaking its significance among the most cherished traditions of German carnival culture. The unique combination of political satire and collective laughter enhances the sense of community and pride within the region. And so, as Guckelsberger led the crowd through the grand finale with the sing-along of "Meenz bleibt Meenz," it served as both a heartfelt reminder of the show's legacy and the power of satire. Whether through nostalgic echoes of the past or current echoes of laughter, "Mainz bleibt Mainz" remains timeless.