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We cross over to the other side of the New Way. There, the black marble tomb of the chamber actor Richard Spethmann catches the eye. He was born on February 8, 1891, as the son of a sculptor in Altona. Spethmann gained his first stage experiences in Hamburg at the Ernst-Drucker-Theater. Subsequently, he held various engagements in Schleswig, Wismar, and Neustrelitz. In 1917, he was engaged as a singer for the opera chorus in Schwerin.
In addition to his powerful singing voice, Spethmann's great comedic talent was soon recognized, and he was entrusted with larger solo tasks. His organizational talent and skill in directing were also noted. Thus, for 39 years, Richard Spethmann enriched the theater life of Schwerin with his great charisma in both humorous and serious roles of various genres in an unmistakable manner. Richard Spethmann's special love for Low German drama led to the establishment of a Low German stage at the Mecklenburg State Theater Schwerin in 1926. For the opening of this new department on November 27, 1926, the comedy "Straatenmusik" was chosen. Subsequently, the Low German stage of the State Theater not only gained a reputation in its hometown but also earned recognition through regular guest performances. With "The Emperor of Portugal," one of his brilliant roles, Richard Spethmann celebrated his 45th stage anniversary in 1955.
Richard Spethmann contributed to the enrichment of the repertoire in Low German theater with self-written plays, achieving great success. One of his successful works was his adaptation of "Uncle Bräsig," in which he skillfully intertwined themes from Reuter's "Stromtied" and "Kein Hüsung." Richard Spethmann took his stage farewell in 1956. With the title of chamber actor, his artistic personality and versatile talent received the recognition they deserved. Today, the Fritz Reuter Stage continues Richard Spethmann's rich legacy at the Schwerin Theater, making a significant contribution to the preservation and revitalization of the Low German language. Richard Spethmann passed away on April 1, 1960, finding his final resting place in Schwerin.