Mario Adorf Prize awarded to musical duo behind 'Hunnenkönigin' at Nibelungen Festival

The Nibelungen Festival in Worms has concluded its season with a notable award ceremony. International musician Alice Merton and guitarist Alexander Wolfe were honored with the prestigious Mario Adorf Prize for their significant contributions to the production of "Die Hunnenkönigin."

Merton, known for her hit song "No Roots," and Wolfe were responsible for composing and performing the entire soundtrack for the play. Their music was not merely background accompaniment but was integral to the narrative, performed live on stage each night. The festival's board recognized their work, stating that their music "vertont the evening's narrative" and that "feelings make history. Feelings change history."

The award, which includes a 10,000 Euro prize and a glass stele, celebrates artistic achievements. The Mario Adorf Prize, established in 2018, is named after the renowned actor and co-founder of the festival, who passed away in April at age 95. The prize aims to keep Adorf's legacy closely tied to the festival.

This year's festival, featuring "Die Hunnenkönigin" by the London-based theater company Les Enfants Terribles, proved highly successful. All 16 performances, attended by approximately 24,000 people, were sold out. The play tells the story of Kriemhild's transformation from a princess to a powerful figure. The festival's next edition is scheduled from July 9 to 25, 2027.