Making a Killing

The ropes are ready, the crowd is waiting, and the hangman has a new apprentice. When Claus Kohler is apprenticed to Frantz Schmidt, Nuremberg’s seasoned executioner, the two men are thrown together in a world where duty, morality, and power collide, and every decision leaves a mark. But as the gallows fill and suspicion takes root, their fates become dangerously entwined, until both must decide who they are, and which side of the rope they stand on.

Performed by just two actors, Making a Killing is a razor-sharp, dark comedy about justice, corruption, and the cost of survival in a world disturbingly like our own. Bold, biting, and impossible to ignore, the play takes inspiration from The Journal of Master Franz Schmidt, Public Executioner of Nuremberg, 1573–1617. A remarkable historical record that lays bare the humanity and contradictions of a man who killed for a living.

“The most tremendous evening I’ve had at the theatre in years!” Audience response

“A dark comedy that hits hard and never lets go” Audience response

“The performance was absolutely fantastic. We have seen many shows over the years but this was absolutely amazing” Audience response

“The versatility and chemistry of the actors combine with a gripping plot to deliver a truly enthralling evening” Audience response

“Blown away by it. Incredible talent!” Audience response

“A gripping new script filled with powerful ideas, executed with energy, unpredictability and real humour” Audience response

BSL-interpreted performance Thu 9 April, 7.45pm

Interpretation by Hayley Wiseman, provided by Complete Communication, part of The Inclusivity Group.

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