Leopoldstadt

Scene One

It is December 1899 in Vienna, Austria. The Merz family home is in the midst of pleasant chaos as the children decorate the Christmas tree and several conversations are held at once amongst the extended family. Little or no sense can be made, except that there is a chocolate cake which is making the rounds amongst adults and children alike. As they talk, it becomes clear that they are a traditional Jewish family, but Gretl and Ernst, Grandma Emilia’s daughter-in-law and son-in-law respectively, are Christians who have married into it. Grandma has reluctantly put up a Christmas tree for her grandchildren (who hover between both faiths). 18 year-old Hanna takes Gretl aside to confide in her that she met someone in Vienna who she really likes. She is visiting Ludvig and Wilma (her brother and sister) but must return home soon.Despite this, she has agreed to go to tea with Fritz the following day, but needs Gretl to accompany her.

Meanwhile, Ludvig and Ernst are having an in