The atmosphere was electric at the Nockherberg on the evening of March 12, 2025, as Bavarians gathered for the annual Starkbier probe, also known as the "Derblecken." Following the lead of tradition, this event featured satire, humor, and jesting directed at the region3s political elite. The Singspiel this year was titled "Ein Wadl fr Deutschland," promising to deliver both laughter and sharp political commentary.3
Starting at 19:00 local time, the Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation (BR) aired the Fastenpredigt and Singspiel live, attracting viewers interested not only in comedy but also the biting critique often associated with this event. The Fastenpredigt was delivered for the fifth consecutive year by Maxi Scharfroth, who humorously clad as a monk, raised eyebrows as he commented on the political climate.
Unlike previous years, the timing of this Starkbierprobe fell shortly after the early Bundestagswahl on February 23, creating additional challenges for the authors preparing the Singspiel and the Fastenpredigt. "You can never plan too accurately when political developments are changing so rapidly," said Scharfroth. He ensured, though, the traditional spirit of mockery would be adhered to. "It3s all about pulling the wool over the eyes of our leaders, so they must laugh at themselves just as we would laugh at them," he added.
Viewers tuned in to witness not just clever lyrics but also the performances of actors who adeptly portrayed prominent political figures. For 2025, the politicians artfully mocked included Markus Söder (portrayed by Thomas Unger), Olaf Scholz (Nikola Norgauer), and Friedrich Merz (David Zimmerschied), among others. The spectacle of their musical impersonations provided comic relief, especially at such delicate political times.
This year, the Singspiel featured lighthearted songs such as one about the dire circumstances facing the newly formed coalition, casting humor upon serious issues like climate change and financial stability. "The mood is dire; let3s throw money at the problem to make it seem less bad!" they sang, as streams of faux money rained down from the backdrop.
Following the opening performances, Minister-President Söder emerged to express his appreciation for this jovial tradition. "It has been delightful, and my double performed splendidly," he remarked, laced with humor as always. He added, "I must say, every year I look forward to being 'Derbleckt'. It puts things back in perspective, even during challenging times. My double just gets funnier!" His positive reception reinforces the entertaining nature of the event, waving off the critiques with jest.
The audience was also treated to additional comedic breaks, featuring the likes of Dieter Reiter as his double interacted with other notable actors mimicking their real-life counterparts. Scharfroth's Fastenpredigt invited applause and laughter throughout, catching the attention of not only the audience inside the venue but millions of viewers at home. The humorous commentary details not only current events but also trivial aspects of daily political life.
With the event, the organizers embraced holidays and the celebratory spirit. The release of the first Starkbier – Salvator – was integral to this yearly tradition, flowing freely as guardians of Bavarian culture ushered politicians to partake. Entry was limited to invite-only guests, adding exclusivity to the night. Each individual present held strong political connections, highlighting the network of Bavaria's elite.
Online access through the ARD-Mediathek allowed followers unable to attend to watch the lively tradition from afar. The repeat broadcast included highlights of the Fastenpredigt and was secured firmly for playback on March 15, ensuring the celebration continued to reach wider audiences.
One of the stars of the evening was the Singspiel itself, titled "Ein Wadl für Deutschland." During its presentation, the actors engaged the audience with familiar faces and vocal finesse, entertainingly wrestling with key political issues under the guise of delightful melody and dance. The performances encapsulated the essence of Bavarian humor, with satire targeting everything from local politics to international affairs, promising both engagement and laughter.
Throughout the streaming of this political satire, the BR ensured its commitment to broadcasting events continuously, running coverage of the festivities until nearly midnight. Steeped fully within customs, the Nockherberg showcased not merely Bavarian wit but also the spirit of democracy through laughter and the exercise of free expression.
On location, renown and less known personalities filled the seats, fostering camaraderie among different actors across Bavarian institutions. Renowned opener Luise Kinseher welcomed the attendees with her enchanting flair as she reminisced about her history with this tradition—she had previously performed as the beloved persona Mama Bavaria.
Throwing support behind the progression of local culture, especially amid times of political tumult, organizers expressed satisfaction with both the turnout and the performances by the actors. Not only did the event offer comedic reprieve, but it also transpired as the ideal backdrop for earnest exchanges among political leaders.
The allure of the Nockherberg continues to resonate with audiences, bolstered by the authenticity of Bavarian humor dystopian realities portrayed through laughter. While the pressures of global issues loom outside, the jovial jokes surrounding the state's prominent figures echoed among attendees, showcasing the resilience and unity through humor and tradition.
Overall, the evening marked another successful chapter for Bavarian festivities, fostering community and camaraderie among politicians and citizens alike! With Max Scharfroth returning next year, anticipation builds for how dialogue is to resume under the guise of jests and juggles. Will the themes grow bolder or take on fresh new depth? Only time will tell. The local populace eagerly awaits another unmissable Starkbier probe on the Nockherberg, where tradition lives and thrives, one laugh at a time.