"The re-staging of the tragedy linked to the Pershing catastrophe in Heilbronn now bears a fresh perspective."
In the heart of Germany, the city of Heilbronn is preparing for the premiere of a thought-provoking documentary theater play. Titled "Pershing," the production is set to explore the impact of a historical event that shook the nation four decades ago.
The idea for this project came from chief dramaturg Mirjam Meuser. Working in collaboration with Regine Dura and Hans Werner Kroesinger, and with the assistance of the Heilbronn city archive, they have crafted a play that promises to delve into the events surrounding the Pershing-II missile disaster.
The play is not a simple retelling of the past, but a reflection on the current relevance of the topic. With plans for new deployments of US intermediate-range missiles in Germany from 2026, the play aims to shed light on the societal implications of such decisions.
The disaster in question occurred on January 11, 1985, when a Pershing-II missile exploded at the US missile base on the Heilbronn forest heath. The tragic event resulted in the death of three soldiers and the injury of 16 others.
"Pershing" is expected to draw from a variety of sources, including impressions from memorial events, documents from the Foreign Office, and interviews with eyewitnesses such as peace activists, firefighters, and local politicians.
The play is part of a research project marking the 40th anniversary of the Pershing disaster near Heilbronn. By relating local conditions in Heilbronn to the federal German reality then and now, the play aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the societal impact of the event, including the reasons for the missile's stationing, the knowledge of politicians and citizens, their significance, and the traces left in society.
Theater Heilbronn will be the location for the premiere of this intriguing production. For those interested in learning more about the play and its connection to the 1985 Pershing-II missile disaster, further information can be found on theater company websites, play scripts, or reviews specifically dealing with this production.
It's a unique opportunity to delve into a significant part of Germany's history and reflect on its continued relevance today. Don't miss the chance to witness the premiere of "Pershing" at Theater Heilbronn.
In the midst of planning for a new home-and-garden project, Mirjam Meuser, chief dramaturg, decided to channel her creative energy towards a sustainable living initiative. Working alongside Regine Dura and Hans Werner Kroesinger, Meuser intended to create a lifestyle documentary exploring the enduring impact of the 1985 Pershing-II missile disaster on the German society. The project aims to draw insights from memorial events, Federal Office documents, and testimonies of eyewitnesses, shedding light on the societal implications of historical events and their resonance in modern times.
