Timofej Kuljabin, a Russian director living in exile, presents a radical interpretation of Mikhail Bulgakov's famed novel 'The Master and Margarita' at Schauspiel Frankfurt. This staging emphasizes a surreal blend of mysticism and absurdity, rooted in the narrative’s essence where the Devil’s presence has left Moscow in chaos and confusion. The innovative approach reflects both a directorial vision and a cultural critique of the legacies of totalitarianism in the past, transforming the stage into a site of psychological interrogation rather than mere entertainment.

The plot touches on a series of bizarre incidents that engulf Moscow, including the mysterious decapitation of the chairman of the Writers' Union and the emergence of a talking cat that defies the laws of nature. Kuljabin's choice to feature an interrogator in NKVD uniform interrogating the narrative's events suggests a deeper exploration of the relationship between reality and myth under oppressive regimes. This creative decision not only engages with the text itself but also acts as a commentary on the role of art and literature in times of political strife.

The absence of the key characters challenges the audience's perception and prompts reflections on existence, authority, and the absurdity that often accompanies the human condition. As a result, Kuljabin's interpretation opens up avenues for discussion about the importance of storytelling and theater in confronting historical trauma and providing a space for artistic freedom, even when faced with collective memory and the shadow of censorship.