It is the most famous opening of any novel in modern literature. Gregor Samsa wakes up one morning transformed into a giant insect. His family's pity soon turns to alienation and aggression. His last ties to the human sphere are his beloved sister's violin playing and the erotically charged image of a lady in a fur coat. In the end, Samsa's death is a relief for everyone. 

Manuel Gerst, former member of the cult performance group Monster Truck, transforms Kafka's story into a daring theatrical event. At the center of his production is the figure of the tragic beetle, which once again enters a process of transformation. References to bachelor parties meet action and destruction art, Kafka meets Ayn Rand, Joseph Beuys meets Judith Butler. Gerst reads Kafka's parable as a story about disability.

The collective transformation increasingly turns out to be a bold bet on art. In the end, it doesn't matter what position the audience takes—the dent remains the same. Let he who is without sin cast the first apple.

«Finally, here is a theatre evening that is worth thinking about for a long time to come.» Der Tagesspiegel

The beetle will be on display at the Museum Tinguely before (18–26 March) and after the performance (29 March–12 April).

The post-performance discussion will take place on Sunday, 29 March 2026, at 3:30 p.m. in the Tinguely Museum under the title «Art and Destruction».