Traditional St. Nicholas game in Krungl

Performance times:
5:00 p.m. Stoffbauer-Tenne in Krungl
6:15 p.m. Gasthof Zauchenwirt
7:00 p.m. Parkplatz Tauplitzalm Alpenstraße in Thörl
8:00 p.m. Hotel Grimmingblick - Terrace
9:00 p.m. Dorfplatz Bad Mitterndorf

Every year on December 5th, the Nikolospiel has been taking place in Bad Mitterndorf for over 100 years, as can be read in the local chronicle. There is still genuine customs present there. Those who value tradition are right in Bad Mitterndorf . The texts are about 100 years old and have retained their original wording to this day. Although some things may seem difficult to understand in today's time, the phrasing conveys to the listener the past of a less hectic world.

The wooden masks are fearsome but exhibit human traits. The oldest mask, that of the Bartl, is over 200 years old. Especially notable figures are the straw scrapers, who rise high into the sky with their meter-long horns and march in front of the procession, lumbering along while cracking their whips in time. Quartermasters, night watchmen, and the white horse rider open the play. The Bartl carries a hunchback basket filled with fruits and sweets, which Bishop Nicholas and the pastor distribute to the children. Death appears in the form of the grim reaper and strikes him to the ground. The forces of evil, represented by two Krampuses, drag him out of the tavern.

If Bishop Nicholas has previously preached against sin and urged goodness, he warns anew but then leaves the spectators in the tavern to the bride devil. This one describes how he disrupts marriages. In this rhyming text, the old and rural aspects particularly reflect. However, one should pay attention to the smith and Habergeiss. The Nikolojäger have everything well under control and ensure order. While masks and furs are continuously renewed, the main characters have remained almost unchanged for several decades.

 A visit to Bad Mitterndorf is certainly worthwhile.