SOLO SUNNY in Potsdam: The DEFA classic becomes intense live theater
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SOLO SUNNY: A rebellious voice returns to the stage
On January 15, 2027, SOLO SUNNY will premiere at the Great House of the Hans Otto Theater in Potsdam. The stage adaptation of the DEFA cult film by Konrad Wolf combines deadpan humor, great longing, and live music into an intense theater evening about self-determination and the courage to forge one’s own path.
Between dance halls, the province, and the big stage
Ingrid Sommer calls herself Sunny as a singer. With the band Die Tornados, she travels through the provinces and performs in dance halls where beer, fried potatoes, and daily monotony set the tone. However, Sunny dreams of a big career. As a trained locksmith, she knows practical work, but on stage, she seeks shine, freedom, and a life beyond entrenched expectations.
A strong female figure with a vulnerable side
Sunny does not let herself be co-opted. Her uncompromising longing for happiness brings her into conflict with neighbors, bandmates, and men who cannot handle her independence. A dream-lost love story with a young philosopher ends in disappointment. Nevertheless, Sunny does not stay down: She shakes it off, looks ahead, and claims her place.
Live band and musical stage performance
The staging by Hakan Savaş Mican relies heavily on music and a live band. Under the musical direction of Nils Ostendorf, a stage sound emerges with trumpet, cello, keyboard, and percussion. The orchestration connects the atmosphere of DEFA cinema with an immediate theatrical energy, where acting, singing, rhythm, and stage performance intertwine.
A DEFA classic in the Potsdam film context
Solo Sunny is one of the most successful films of GDR cinema. The 1980 film received the Silver Bear for Renate Krößner and the FIPRESCI film critic award at the Berlinale. The music by Günther Fischer was crucial to the film. In Potsdam, an important location in German film history, the story now gains a new theatrical perspective.
An ensemble between laconicism and new beginnings
Charlott Lehmann takes on the title role. Alongside her are Hannes Schumacher, Jan Hallmann, Jon-Kaare Koppe, Arne Lenk, Franziska Melzer, and Bettina Riebesel. The direction is by Hakan Savaş Mican, who previously worked at the Berlin Maxim Gorki Theater. Set design, costumes, and video expand the live atmosphere with visual levels between courtyard, dance hall, and inner dream world.
Conclusion: An evening for everyone searching for their own rhythm
The audience can expect a musical theater experience with precise acting, melancholic tonal colors, and a main character who refuses to be silenced despite setbacks. Those familiar with the DEFA classic will experience a new interpretation; those meeting Sunny for the first time will discover a powerful story about freedom, desire, and resistance. Secure your premiere evening at the Hans Otto Theater and experience SOLO SUNNY live in Potsdam.
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