The political satire event at the Nockherberg is set for March 12, 2025, promising to once again blend humor and critique against the backdrop of Bavaria’s beloved Starkbier tradition. Scheduled to commence at 19:00, this year’s edition will follow the performance style established over many years, capturing political absurdities through parody and wit.
Known as the Derblecken, this event takes place at the Paulaner Brauhaus and is not just entertainment but also involves serious themes as it critiques the current political situation. Following the recent Bundestagswahl on February 23, where tensions ran high, the atmosphere on-stage is expected to be charged with commentary on the results and their repercussions. This year, the spotlight will shine on prominent figures such as Markus Söder, the Bavarian Minister President, and Friedrich Merz, leader of the opposition Christian Democratic Union (CDU) among others.
Montaged with comedic sketches, the event will feature the Fastenpredigt delivered by Maximilian Schafroth for the fifth consecutive year. Known for his sharp critique, Schafroth will address pressing political issues with humor, making biting remarks about the political elite. "O'zapft is!" will be exclaimed at the start of the Starkbier serving, kicking off the satirical festivities.
This year’s Singspiel is intriguingly titled “Ein Wadl für Deutschland,” though the full meaning and the jokes behind it remain under wraps for now. Audiences can expect songs and sketches targeting politicians with humorous parodies. The known cast for the Singspiel includes actors portraying notable political leaders: Thomas Unger as Markus Söder, Nikola Norgauer as Olaf Scholz, and David Zimmerschied as Friedrich Merz. Each performance is crafted to mirror the personalities and recent political maneuvers of these figures, turned comedic caricatures.
Bayerischer Rundfunk (BR) will broadcast the entire event live, ensuring fans of Bavarian satire and politics have access to watch the raucous sessions of political critique and revelry. The transmission will extend beyond the main event, with anticipation of high viewer numbers similar to last year’s impressive 2.6 million who tuned in to witness the political antics.
Leading up to the event at 19:00, the BR will provide pre-event coverage, setting the stage for the litanies of humor mingled with political commentary. The Singspiel’s writers, Richard Oehmann and Stefan Betz, have adjusted their material to align with the political climate influenced by the recently concluded elections.
There is also excitement surrounding the involvement of newcomers and returning stars. Luise Kinseher, making her return, will pass the ceremonial first beer glass to Söder, marking the occasion with the traditional opening phrase, "Salve pater patriae! Bibas, princeps optime!" signifying respect to regional leadership.
While the event is primarily festive, it also serves as a platform for serious discussions around issues like Bavaria’s political climate and the role each politician plays within the broader national narrative. Schafroth, along with others, is expected to push the envelope, bringing attention to more controversial topics with poised levity.
The Nockherberg event, known for its unique blend of politics and humor, invites not just politicians but audiences across Germany to partake, watch, and reflect on what is often described as one of the most vibrant expressions of Bavarian culture.
Attendees are expected to include influencers, social luminaries, and political advocates, creating significant buzz around the evening. With the political stakes raised post-election, all eyes will be on how the satirical performances will navigate this terrain, and what laughter will emerge from the critiques within the Bavarian hospitality.
With the Starkbier serving and the traditional humor of the Nockherberg, the atmosphere will surely be lively, filled with anticipation for Schafroth's remarks and the ensuing skits. Prepare for what promises to be another unforgettable evening of Bavarian tradition, humor, and satire as the Nockherberg brings political figures under comedic scrutiny once again.