Salome

However, something appears to have shifted tonight: his boundless desire seems unstoppable. At the same time, a bedraggled prophet by the name of John announces the approaching end of this decadent society in a cistern outside of the palace gates. He reviles Salome’s family and a world that brings forth people of that kind. Salome is immediately attracted to him and desperately seeks out his company against all warnings. He has nothing but disdain for her and tells her to search for God. She, on the other hand, loves him, desires him, wants to kiss the rough prophet at any price.


At the same time Herod becomes obsessed with a single desire: to see Salome dance. In return, he is willing to fulfil her every desire. Although her own mother despises her husband’s flagrancy, she also sees an opportunity to finally get rid of the unwelcome prophet. As Salome cannot stop dreaming of a union with John, even death itself ceases to be a limit to the fulfilment of her desire. Eventually, she dances.


What’s the value of love in a decadent society? What does unfettered lust really mean? What happens when all of our wishes are suddenly fulfilled? »Salome« marks Michael Thalheimer’s return to Schaubühne after nine years.