For everyone aged 2 and above

“Paper work” moves between performance and installation: Two performers explore the ever-changing nature of paper.

A game unfolds between what is visible and what remains hidden, yet can already be sensed. Paper proves to be a living partner in this game, rich in contrasts: it allows for order and chaos, light and shadow, fullness and gaps, searching and finding. An invitation to a literal shift in perspective and a play on the human ability to discover life in the simplest of forms.

Duration: 35 minutes, followed by a 15-minute post-performance

A Play between the Visible and the Hidden: A Successful Premiere—Helios Theater’s New Production “Papierkram” Captivates Families and Young Children

The new play “Papierkram,” aimed at the youngest theatergoers aged two and up, revolves around paper. A total of 70 visitors, mostly families, attended the sold-out premiere on Sunday afternoon at the Kulturbahnhof. For many of the children, it was their first time at the theater. The 35-minute play promotes early childhood aesthetic education by stimulating the imagination and creativity.
Minju Kim and Michael Lurse took the theatergoers on a journey into the world of paper.
Carrying a large paper ball, they entered the foyer, where the excited children were already waiting. Rustling, tearing, fluttering: the paper immediately captured their attention. Is something hidden among the many layers? But before the paper ball was torn any further, the two actors invited the children onto the stage.

The stage was divided in two by a wall of paper. Minju Kim sat on one side, Michael Lurse on the other. In a blend of performance and installation, the two explored the ever-changing nature of paper as a material. It was a play between the visible and that which was still hidden, yet could already be sensed. They used their hands to crumple it, scissors to cut flowers out of it, and, in particular, light. With flashlights, the actors danced across the stage, and the resulting shadow plays transformed the unassuming paper into an unexpected realm of imagination.
“Paper has proven to be a lively playmate that is very versatile. “The children should have their first experiences in the theater and not be afraid,” said director Barbara Kölling. There have already been performances for the youngest visitors on the themes of wood and water. Now the focus is on paper.
After the performance, there was a group craft and painting session. The Friends of the Helios Theater provided waffles and cake free of charge but also welcomed donations.

Wednesday, March 11, 2026,

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