How Mel Brooks, Woody Allen and even Kafka exposed the absurd with laughter and wit
Humor is a defining part of Jewish culture, so don’t miss the comedic elements in ‘The Metamorphosis’
Sergio del Molino
14 July 2023
I have recently seen two adaptations of The Trial by Franz Kafka. One was an opera by Gottfried von Einem and the other was a play at the María Guerrero Theater in Madrid, directed by Ernesto Caballero with Carlos Hipólito playing Josef K. Neither one gave audiences much to laugh about. I saw the opera in Germany, where laughter may not be the norm, but the cabaret-inspired stage and the dramatic antics of certain singers (mezzo-soprano Patrizia Häusermann as Frau Grubach is a true comedic talent) helped amplify the comedic elements. On the other hand, the Spanish play was expressionistic and austere, which may have led to the misconception that The Trial is a tragedy. Or perhaps the audience was just feeling solemn that night.
