Geneva, Switzerland – A production of Lukas Bärfuss’s “Séduction” at the Théâtre du Grütli in Geneva is drawing critical scrutiny, with some observers questioning the staging of a play centered on manipulation and deceit. The play, which ran from January 28th to February 13th, 2026, explores the story of an ex-con attempting reintegration into society, complicated by a woman claiming to be his daughter and a therapist involved in his rehabilitation.
The production, directed by Gian Manuel Rau, follows Bärfuss’s exploration of psychological complexity, a hallmark of his perform. Rau previously collaborated with Bärfuss on “Le Voyage d’Alice en Suisse” at the same venue a decade ago, a production lauded for its unsettling exploration of existential themes. However, a recent review in Le Temps, published February 10th, 2026, suggests that “Séduction” lacks the nuanced direction of their earlier work.
The play’s premise draws inspiration from the case of Helg Sgarbi, a Swiss con man who defrauded Susanne Klatten, an heiress to the BMW fortune, out of 7 million euros in 2007. Bärfuss’s script, translated by Mathilde Sobottke, delves into themes of credulity and the human require to be deceived. The narrative unfolds around Hauke Born, played by Vincent Bonillo, a recently released prisoner, and the ambiguous relationships he forms with Tania, the therapist portrayed by Alexandra Marcos, and Sonja, his alleged daughter, played by Agathe Hauser.
The review in Le Temps acknowledges the strength of the performances, noting that Bonillo, Marcos, and Hauser “do what they can” with the material. However, it suggests the production fails to fully capture the inherent theatricality of the subject matter, leaving the audience wanting.
The Compagnie Camastral, Rau’s production company, has previously staged Bärfuss’s work, including a November 2025 production of “Séduction” at the Oriental Vevey. Other recent productions by the company include “87,5 [ABOUT TCHEKOV]” and “CANTUS.” The Grütli theatre also hosted a performance of “FRÉHEL C’EST MOI” in early 2024.
The production of “Séduction” concluded its run at the Grütli on February 13th, 2026, with no immediate plans for further stagings announced.
