UBUNTU: The Sultan's Good Fortune (Der Sultan im Glück)

Pina Bausch Centre under construction, Bundesallee 260, Wuppertal
Free admission

How does a dictatorship come into being? Why do people become accustomed to the abuse of power? And what remains of freedom and humanity when fear shapes everyday life? These are the questions explored by the Azzawi Multikulti Theatre in its new production The Sultan's Good Fortune – a political black comedy that masterfully combines wit with profound social insight.

Through sharp humor, absurd situations, and deeply moving moments, the play tells the story of a ruler whose power appears limitless. Yet behind the façade of greatness and control lie arbitrariness, oppression, and the devastating consequences of a system that strips people of their freedom. The production illustrates that dictatorship is not merely a political phenomenon; it reaches into families, friendships, and everyday human relationships.

Rather than offering simple answers, The Sultan's Good Fortune invites audiences to reflect on democracy, human rights, moral courage, and social responsibility. Humor becomes a powerful tool of criticism, opening new perspectives on issues that could hardly be more relevant today.

The ensemble is just as remarkable as the play itself. At Azzawi Multikulti Theatre, people from different generations and backgrounds perform together on stage, including individuals with refugee and migrant experiences, senior citizens, and people with disabilities. Many bring diverse cultural backgrounds and languages to the production. It is precisely this diversity that makes the performance authentic, vibrant, and compelling.

The production is an artistic plea for freedom, democracy, cultural diversity, and social cohesion — and an invitation to experience the unifying power of the arts together.

Our heartfelt thanks to INSEL e.V. Wuppertal for their generous support and for providing the rehearsal space.