Der Schauspieldirektor revolves around the woes of an impresario, Frank, who must put together a company of actors and singers while dealing with their whims, rivalries and pretensions. Actors and actresses are auditioned in a series of dramatic excerpts, and the jealous anger of the old- fashioned tragic actress Mme Krone is provoked when a higher fee is offered to Mme Vogelsang. The actor Herz introduces his wife, who sings an expressive aria. Mme Silberklang deigns to audition and is engaged at the same fee as Mme Herz and the title prima donna, now claimed by Mme Herz. The singer Vogelsang tries to mollify them. In the end, after the intervention of Mme Pfeil's banker friend, Eiler, everyone agrees to the fees offered. The singers and actors determine that art can thrive only through the peaceable cooperation of all their strengths.
Der Schauspieldirektor guide sections