March 24, 2023, 5:04 am | Read time: 2 minutes
After facing heavy criticism for planning to feature a real cat in a production, the Hessian State Theater is now backing away from this plan.
The Hessian State Theater in Wiesbaden faced significant backlash after it was revealed that the theater planned to feature a live cat in the play “Liebestod” during the International May Festival. In early February, the theater sought a “sociable” black cat and issued a public casting call: “If you’ve noticed your furry friend showing acting ambitions and believe your pet belongs on a big stage,” you should apply. This endeavor met with little enthusiasm from animal lovers.
Animal Rights Organization Peta Condemns Theater’s Plan
Various animal rights activists publicly labeled this plan as animal cruelty and condemned it harshly: “Animals on theater stages do not have the option to decide whether they want to be there,” stated the animal rights organization Peta. “Crowds, unfamiliar surroundings, bright lights, and transportation to performances are not compatible with animal welfare.”
The criticism likely reached director Angélica Liddell, as it was announced earlier this week that the play would proceed without the animal. “We are pleased that the Hessian State Theater is clearly standing up for animal welfare,” a Peta spokesperson welcomed the theater’s decision.
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Animal Welfare Was Not the Sole Factor
When asked by PETBOOK, the Hessian State Theater was tight-lipped. “Animal welfare was not the sole factor. It was primarily a production-related decision,” stated a brief response to the editorial team. “We will not provide further information on this.”
Overall, the atmosphere at the theater seems somewhat chilly at the moment, as the house is also facing criticism for another production. During the festival in May, Russian opera singer Anna Netrebko is set to perform in Giuseppe Verdi’s opera “Nabucco.” However, the star soprano is under scrutiny for her alleged ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, prompting the state of Hesse and the city of Wiesbaden to oppose her appearance.
Sources
- t-online.de, “Hessian State Theater Foregoes Live Cat on Stage”, (accessed on 03/23/2023)
- peta, “Planned Animal Cruelty Canceled: After PETA Appeal, Hessian State Theater Will Not Use Cats on Stage”, (accessed on 03/23/2023)