Sword Strikes Playgoer During ‘Richard III’ in Berlin
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by Christopher F. SchuetzeFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A German actor lost control of a sword during a performance of *Richard III* in Berlin, striking an audience member in the head. Lars Eidinger, known for his physically demanding roles, was performing the final scene when the accident occurred.幸运的是，剑柄击中了这位女性观众，而不是剑刃，导致她仅受轻伤并迅速离开发场。Eidinger立即中断表演，向受伤者道歉，并请求开启舞台灯光以确保安全。
The Schaubühne theater, a renowned repertory company in Berlin, had prepared the scene with a stunt coordinator and regularly rehearsed it. Despite the unexpected mishap, the theater plans to continue its performances as scheduled. Johanna Lühr, a spokesperson for the theater, confirmed that no ambulance was needed, and Eidinger even called the woman the following day to check on her condition.
Eidinger, a celebrated actor known for his intense physicality in roles like Richard III and *Hamlet*, has faced on-stage injuries before. In 2016, during a performance of *Hamlet* at London’s Barbican Center, he slipped, hit his head on a concrete balcony, and briefly lost consciousness but continued the show. His dedication to his craft highlights the risks actors take in bringing performances to life.
This incident underscores the unpredictable nature of live theater, where even the most rehearsed moments can go wrong. While safety measures are in place, accidents like this remind audiences of the human element involved in stage productions. Eidinger’s quick response and concern for the injured woman reflect the professionalism and empathy expected from performers.
Such events also spark discussions about safety protocols in theater productions, particularly those involving physical stunts or weapons. For readers interested in news, this story highlights the intersection of artistry, risk, and human error, offering a glimpse into the challenges behind-the-scenes in live performances.
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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/20/2026