Ideals of beauty have always existed—and they still do today. But in our time, they are everywhere, especially on social media. Young people are confronted every day with a flood of images that show them what is considered “beautiful.” Everyone looks for a role model, tries to fit in, and strives to get closer to these ideals. – Mirror, mirror on my phone, tell me, am I the king? (Alligatoah)

Self-presentation plays a central role

The play begins with a scene shaped by the media. The obsession with beauty ideals, coupled with the constant use of headphones, leads to less genuine, spontaneous interaction in public. Instead, self-presentation and self-affirmation take center stage—documented through selfies and Stories shared on social media.

Plagued by self-doubt

One of these teenagers, convincingly portrayed by Elias, is in the middle of creating a new live story about himself. But suddenly, he finds himself fascinated by a young woman who draws him in like magic. He dares to approach her and even includes her in his live stream. But before he can ask her out, doubts assail him: What if she says no? – I’m… I’m not like you. I’m not the type to make a good first impression.

Overcoming Uncertainty

This uncertainty is heightened by the contrast with two characters who are portrayed as the embodiment of perfection and self-improvement. The “Perfect One” confronts him defiantly: “And what exactly is ‘yourself’?” A stuttering boy who looks like he just rolled out of bed? But the Doubting One argues against this. He insists on spontaneity, authenticity, and the beauty of imperfection. Despite his insecurity, he decides to ask her out on a date.

Emotions Described with Humor

In the final scene, the audience finds itself immersed in the thoughts of the two protagonists as they prepare for their date. Emotions such as nervousness, springtime feelings, and daydreams are humorously portrayed and brought to life through impressive physical theater. At the same time, a video projection shows Elias and his crush sitting across from each other—but instead of looking at one another, they’re both busy perfecting their appearance in the mirror.

They finally look into each other’s eyes

The short performance concludes with a telling moment: The two finally look into each other’s eyes.
The audience—Music Class 13 and DS Class 12—was particularly enthusiastic about the expressive physical theater, the carefully selected music, and the impressive acting performances.

Cast:
, Arwen Seifert,
, Elias Schumann,
, Silas Krüger,
, and Luisa Harperscheid

Ines Vielhaben

They sing, they dance, they play music, and they perform. And the way they do it looks incredibly professional! Under the title “Revue,” the upper school students at Steinmühle presented artistic, theatrical, and musical performances on the Forum stage for the third year in a row. It was a packed program spread over three consecutive days. For that alone: Hats off to them!

Surprises, emotions, and spine-tingling moments dominated the 90-minute revue, at which Daniel Sans welcomed the guests.

Samba drum roll

Introduced by Ulrike Wilmsmeyer, the 12-member ensemble from the 11th grade kicked off the program. With its samba drum roll and powerful sound, the ensemble—under the proven direction of Kerstin Itzenhäuser—drew the audience into the moment, earning a long round of applause.

Please mark your calendars: June 24

Hansel and Gretel then took the stage—a drama performance by the 11th-grade class. Announced by Nina Merzenich as the “final rehearsal,” the performance featured brief scenes from a modern production in which the protagonists tossed “candy” into the audience, just like at Carnival. The audience was encouraged to mark June 24 as a “Save the Date,” as that is when the play will be completed.

We’re definitely marking this date on our calendars! Hansel and Gretel at the therapist’s office, at the kebab shop, at the hookah bar—that certainly piques our curiosity.

Impressive without the effort

“A big show with simple means”—that’s how Ulrike Wilmsmeyer introduced the body percussion performance by six 12th-grade students. Thanks to the collaboration with the Sound & Light team and their sophisticated technology, the result was a flawless performance by this sunglasses-wearing sextet.

Ines Vielhaben provided commentary on the diverse “Alice in Wonderland” posters on display in the Atrium’s foyer. They express how young people navigate this world. There will be more to see on this topic on June 24 as well.

This was followed by crystal-clear solo vocals accompanied by a piano. Annica Bartsch and Mio Bender provided yet another example of how a performance doesn’t have to rely on elaborate costumes and show effects. Goosebump moments? There were plenty of them here!

The “Aliens”

In stark contrast, the 12th-grade dance troupe, dressed in matching outfits and performing to Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” under black lights, seemed as if they were from another world.

A real gem is Olaf Roth’s live band, which is always the “icing on the cake” at musical events. Along with the flowers for the teachers, the band’s leader received praise for “… working with us despite our lack of a sense of rhythm.”

The Grand Finale for the graduating class

As he conducted the 120-member high school choir through pieces ranging from “I’m Walking” to “Hollywood Hills,” choir director Daniel Sans could not hide his wistfulness. It was the last time the tenor, conductor, and music teacher at Steinmühle led the Class of 2013 through a public performance. With additional ballads such as “Rolling in the Deep” and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” the revue evening drew to a close.

Daniel Sans also received a heartfelt compliment along with the flowers: “You help make the Steinmühle more than just a school.”

How wonderful—and how fitting. The audience rose to their feet for a standing ovation.

Needless to say, an encore was in order. “Lay All Your Love on Me” by ABBA, 45 years old. And everyone in the hall sang along.

After Principal Björn Gemmer’s words of appreciation and farewell to everyone involved in the evening, the senior class’s contribution came at just the right time. They treated the guests to delicious snacks and refreshing drinks.