THE EDUCATED SICK - AIST FESTIVAL 2026

OPEN-AIR PERFORMANCE in the romantic outdoor area right next to the Aist
Modernization of a classic

The title "The Trained Sick Man" consciously refers to the original and alludes to the central conflict: At the heart of the story is a hypochondriac who becomes an expert on his own illnesses through the internet, feeling better informed than the doctors themselves. However, the themes of fake news and social media addiction lead the protagonist into complete chaos. The internet elevates illness to art and drives people into a new form of dependency.

Molière's timeless comedy and its reinterpretation

Molière's "The Imaginary Invalid" is one of the most famous and frequently performed comedies by the French national poet, captivating audiences with its wit and universal humor. The main character, Argan, suffers from "man flu" and ultimately pretends to be near death to test the love of his wife and children. This comically tragic role still resonates with audiences today and elicits many laughs.

The Austrian adaptation

Director and theater manager Richard Maynau collaborated with Werner Rohrhofer last year to create a new, adapted version of the play. The result is an Austrian version where illness is elevated to art, Argan becomes Anton, and the madness of the internet reaches the sickrooms. In this version, diagnoses are made by artificial intelligence, and treatment methods become increasingly absurd. Everyone is now their own doctor, and in an artistic way – a truly "trained" sick man.

Featuring: Alfred Rauch, Alexandra Kloiber, Gabriel Tober-Kastner, Annemarie Lettmayr, Annika Reichör, Michael Türk, Dominik Zwettler, Julia Beyerl, Theresa Stingeder, Rudi Hofer, Valerie Kloiber, Karl Hofer, Uli Starzer, Anna Dumbiotis, Reinhard Prinz, Regina Hunger, and Stephanie Pilz; Costumes: Uli Starzer; Stage: Karin Stieger; Direction: Richard Maynau

Premiere: June 26, 2026
Additional performances: June 27, July 3, July 5, July 9 to 12, July 17 to 19
Each at 8:00 PM