Fairy Tales with a Twist: Grade 5D & 6D Perform “Mord im Märchenwald” at GESM

On June 24, the German European School Manila (GESM)’s brand-new Berlin Auditorium became the stage for an unforgettable student production: “Mord im Märchenwald” ("Murder in Fairy Tale Forest"). Presented by students from Grades 5D and 6D, the play was a humorous and crime-filled mash-up of classic fairy tales—with a twist.

Chosen by the students themselves and directed by teacher Ute Massow, the play combined mystery, comedy, and social commentary. Parents filled the auditorium to watch as well-known characters like Little Red Riding Hood, the prince, and even endangered frogs took the stage in unexpected roles.

The story begins when a princess throws a frog against the wall, turning him into a prince—prompting her jealous friend Rose Red to try the same, with tragic results. The resulting investigation leads four detectives from the human world into the heart of Fairyland, where suspicion falls on the homeless wolf Rolf. Only Little Red Riding Hood stands by him—and even wants to marry him, despite protests from the hunter, grandma, and others. Meanwhile, the prince confesses he doesn’t even love Sleeping Beauty...

Beneath the humor, the play explores deeper themes of prejudice, outsider status, and overbearing parenting, earning laughs and reflection alike. The performance was a fantastic display of student talent, creativity, and collaboration.