Blind Man Takes on 23-Meter Slide at Erfurt Cathedral Festival, Inspiring Thousands
Erfurt, Germany – In a remarkable display of courage and a thirst for experience, Stefan Rost, a entirely blind man, successfully slid down a 23-meter slide erected as part of the backdrop for the Erfurt Cathedral Level Festival, captivating attendees and demonstrating the power of embracing challenges.Rost’s daring feat occurred during the final performances of Puccini’s “La Boheme,” which drew an audience of 40,000 throughout the festival’s run.
Rost described his initial descent as “a bit bumpy,” acknowledging the inherent uncertainty of navigating the slide without sight. “Of course you don’t know what’s coming,” he saeid with a laugh, “But a totally great feeling. That’s why I said I was going again.” His second attempt proved smoother, highlighting his adaptability and determination.
The slide,a prominent feature of the festival’s stage design,offered a unique opportunity for attendees to experience a thrill alongside the operatic performance.Responding to popular demand from local residents eager to try the slide themselves, the theater organized a limited opportunity on the festival’s closing day.However, due to the slide’s ending point presenting a degree of risk, participation was restricted to a select group chosen by lottery.
Rost, accompanied by a guide, attended the final performance of “La Boheme” tonight, explaining his desire to “feel that – outside of this idea. So you can assemble a good impression in your head.” His experience serves as a powerful reminder that adventure and sensory exploration are accessible to all, regardless of physical limitations.