Scented Clouds: A Romantic Comedy Takes Flight Again
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The bernese author and director Markus Keller has revisited the stage adaptation of the film “Jet Lag – Where Love Flies,” bringing the romantic comedy back to the theater stage twenty years after its initial premiere. This time, the story unfolds in Paris under the intriguing title “Scented Clouds.”
As December arrives, theaters often opt for comedies to provide audiences with lighthearted entertainment during the holiday season. New Year’s Eve performances are particularly popular, offering a welcome boost in revenue.
Though, selecting the right play is a challenge. According to Markus Keller, a prominent figure in the Bernese small theater scene, finding good comedies that are fresh to audiences is challenging. Cultural nuances also play a role; German slapstick or British humor don’t always resonate with Swiss audiences. Keller leans towards French comedies for their subtle appeal.
The current production came about through a collaboration with Christiane Wagner, the artistic director of the Effingertheater.They decided to reprise the stage version of “Jet Lag,” which the Effingertheater originally presented on New Year’s Eve in 2005, then directed by Stefan Meier.This time, markus keller took the helm, recognizing the need for further textual and character advancement.
During a four-week rehearsal period, the four actors, particularly the bilingual Judith Seither, contributed significantly.seither, fluent in both French and German, ensured the play retained its French charm despite content adjustments. The premiere on Saturday evening proved their efforts successful.
(Image: Philipp is surprised by the attractive Claire in the departure hall.)
## “Scent Clouds” – An Unexpected Encounter in Paris
What now? Two people facing each other in the same hotel room together?
Departure hall with background noise
“Scent Clouds” tells the story of a man and a woman who meet by chance at an airport in Paris and unexpectedly find each other: a fleeting encounter between two unlike people, first in the anonymous departure hall, then in a cozy hotel room.
For meteorological reasons neither Philipp (Christoph Keller), a prominent manager of a New York gourmet restaurant, nor the attractive beautician Claire (Judith Seither) fly away. With her lively nature, the busy Claire causes chaos and overwhelms the introverted Philipp, who has to swallow pills for medical reasons.
The comedy “Scented Clouds” currently playing at the Volkstheater in Zurich, offers a delightful escape into a world of romance, humor, and unexpected encounters. The story revolves around Serge, who, while searching for his wife Claire, finds himself in a chaotic departure lounge filled with colorful characters and surprising twists.
The play’s success lies in its ability to blend lightheartedness with relatable themes. The set design, by Peter Aeschbacher, creates an immersive experience, while the subtle background noise adds to the atmosphere. The lighting, expertly managed by Claudia Pfitzenmaier, enhances the upscale ambience. The light changes in the hotel room (Claudia Pfitzenmaier) ensure excitement and discretion.
Of course, the end of the story will not be revealed here. Just this much: The comedy “Scented Clouds” combines elements of romance and humor and offers an insight into the challenges and joys of spontaneous falling in love, while at the same time dealing with the themes of “escape” and “new beginnings”. The impressive stage design (peter Aeschbacher) is complemented by discrete background noise.
What makes a good comedy?
A comedy is funny when it destroys expectations without offending the audience, and the repetitive breaks lead to regular “punches” in a good rhythm. Weather something seems funny always depends on the audience, context and topic.
While searching for his wife Claire, Serge (Fabian guggisberg, right) appears in the departure lounge.
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“Scented Clouds” Comedy Show extended at Theater in the Effingerstrasse
the Bernese New Year’s Eve comedy, “Scented Clouds” (“Duftende Wolken” in German), featuring Philipp, Claire, Susan, and Serge, is continuing its run at the Theater in the Effingerstrasse in Bern, Switzerland. Performances are now scheduled until January 10, 2026.
About the Play
“Scented Clouds” is a comedic play set during New year’s eve in Bern, Switzerland. The show centers around the interactions of the characters philipp, Claire, Susan, and Serge, promising a humorous and engaging experience for audiences.Photos from the production are credited to Severin Nowacki.
Performance details
* Venue: Theater in the Effingerstrasse
* Dates: Performances are running until january 10, 2026.
* Tickets & Information: Further details regarding tickets and showtimes can be found on the Theater in the Effingerstrasse website.