How "Jedermann" lost his life and his underpants

Robert Carsen's staging of "Jedermann" at the Salzburg Festival, now in its third year, is struggling to find its footing, despite significant efforts in its presentation. The production, which aims to capture the essence of the classic play, is described as failing to gain momentum, even with the inclusion of large-scale dance and party elements.

The character of Jedermann, or Everyman, is depicted as a product of contemporary society, grappling with the pressures of modern life. The review notes the prevalent discussion around testosterone levels, suggesting that Jedermann, like many men today, experiences a decline compared to previous generations, attributed to factors like lack of physical labor, insufficient sleep, and stress. The Salzburg nouveau riche of 2026, as portrayed in Carsen's vision, is presented as stressed and psychologically burdened, embodying the anxieties of the present era.

While the production features extravagant parties and a vibrant atmosphere, with Jedermann emerging from a golden convertible to mingle with a crowd of cheerful and attractive individuals, this spectacle does not seem to translate into dramatic propulsion. The review suggests a disconnect between the energetic outward presentation and the play's core narrative or thematic development, leading to a sense that the show "doesn't quite get going."

The piece highlights the contrast between the character's outward display of enjoying life to the fullest and the underlying sense of a "precarious expiry date." This tension, coupled with the contemporary portrayal of Jedermann as a stressed, feudal, and psychologically strained figure, forms the basis of Carsen's interpretation. However, the overall assessment points to a production that, despite its visual and thematic ambitions, has yet to fully captivate its audience.