Gilded Mayor, Empty Store, Inn Heart
Stage Set, Central Elements: Golden Statue: An oversized, ostentatious statue of the mayor, prominently displayed in the village square. The statue is not yet fully gilded, surrounded by scaffolding. As the play progresses, more parts are added and gilded. Maria and Nikola later add an oversized "Pinocchio nose" to the mayor's statue. In the final scene, the golden statue is ceremoniously unveiled in all its gaudy, exaggerated glory – including the gigantic Pinocchio nose. Concrete Wall in the Background: The wall spans the entire back of the stage, bare and menacing, topped with barbed wire and floodlights. Left: Facade of the Grocery Store: A small, charming store with an inviting display window and stands for fruits, vegetables, and international specialties. As the play progresses, the displays become increasingly sparse until only empty boxes and a sign reading "Closed due to regulations" remain. Next to the door hangs an "approved" party calendar with nationalist symbolism, which is later replaced by Nikola with a colorful poster. Right: Facade of the Inn "Zum Goldenen Herz": A rustic building with flowers in the windows. The beer benches in front of the inn are a central meeting point for the villagers. Important scenes take place here, such as arguments and secret plans against the mayor. Above the entrance hangs a sign with a glowing golden heart. Atmospheric Details and Changes Throughout the Plot Party Flags and Decorations: The party flags and Austrian flags on the facades are conspicuous, almost exaggerated. As the play progresses, they are sabotaged by the villagers: some flags are removed or secretly replaced with humorous, critical messages. The Square Itself: Cobblestones with alpine violets in concrete planters.
