DER BAU IS A NEW ADAPTATION FOR THE STAGE, WRITTEN BY FRANZ KAFKA, ADAPTED + PERFORMED BY DREW VALINS, AND DIRECTED BY MICHAELA LIND.

DER BAU (THE BURROW)

In Der Bau, a nameless burrowing creature obsesses over erecting a perfectly secure system of defense against unseen enemies above and below. In the embrace of his underground fortress, however, the creature’s overactive imagination takes hold and the threat grows to an unbearable pitch.

DER BAU began as a staged reading at the invitation of the Czech Embassy in Washington, D.C., as part of its official programming commemorating the 100th anniversary of Kafka’s death. This event marked the project’s inception and positioned it within an international conversation about Kafka’s legacy and influence.

Following that, we deepened the project through a week-long workshop and showing at Huerto Roma Verde in Mexico City. That process explored the physical, visual, and conceptual dimensions of the work and confirmed its resonance across cultural contexts.

Currently, we are seeking a residency where we can find the time and support to bring this piece one step closer to full production.