Scandalous theater: Oleanna exposes power games at Ulm University!

Scandalous theater: Oleanna exposes power games at Ulm University!

The Ulm Theater is bringing the provocative play “Oleanna” by David Mamet to the University of Ulm. The performances begin on September 18, 2025 at 7:30 p.m. in lecture hall H2. This production presents an interesting exploration of the themes of power, misunderstanding and higher education that is both timeless and relevant. The performances take place on eleven dates in September and October. Students can hope to receive remaining tickets free of charge via Ulm University's theater flat rate if they register seven days before the performance.

“Oleanna” was released in 1992, 25 years before the #MeToo movement, and has sparked heated debates ever since. The title refers to a song about a utopian society without oppression and reflects the complexity of the relationships between the characters. The plot revolves around student Carol, who struggles in the overwhelming university environment and turns to her lecturer John for help.

A complex network of relationships

The character John is about to become a tenured professor and experiences self-doubt while offering support to Carol. Although he subsequently counts her unsatisfactory report as a pass because he finds her likeable, the situation escalates when Carol later accuses him of sexual harassment and abuse of power. This leads to a threatening turn of events that calls John's professional and personal future into question.

Critics have pointed out that “Oleanna” can be interpreted as a powerful critique of higher education and a look back at societal challenges. The character John is described as someone who practices “microaggressions” and “gaslighting.” While some critics question the play's relevance, others emphasize that it challenges the complex dynamics of power and vulnerability.

Premiere and performance details

The premiere will take place on September 18, 2025, and viewers should be prepared to experience the performance in Lecture Hall H2, accessed via the South Entrance. We recommend using public transport to get there, especially tram line 2 in the direction of “Science Park II” to the Universität Süd stop. There are no parking facilities on site.

Tickets cost 19 euros (reduced: 14 euros) and can be purchased at the theater box office, online or by telephone. The event is in cooperation with the University of Ulm and supported by the “Friends & Supporters of the Ulmer Theater e.V.” carried out. There are also wheelchair spaces available in the lecture hall, which is barrier-free.

As a new production of “Oleanna” receives positive reviews in London, including five stars from The Guardian, it shows that the discussion surrounding Mamet's work remains relevant decades after the premiere. The themes Mamet addresses raise questions of great importance in today's society, particularly with regard to the challenges and values ​​of higher education. For this reason, the production at Ulm University is not only a theatrical event, but also an opportunity to critically examine today's reality.

For further information about the event and press and public relations work, Ulm University can be contacted at (0731) 50 22121.