Actor Dirc Simpson will replace Volker Zack as Sam Hawkens in the upcoming Karl-May-Spiele production of Winnetou II – Tal des Todes in Bad Segeberg. Zack withdrew from the role after suffering an injury during horse-riding rehearsals, according to an official statement from the Karl-May-Spiele organization. The premiere is scheduled for June 27, 2025.
Why Volker Zack withdrew from the production
Volker Zack, who was cast to portray the iconic character Sam Hawkens, announced his departure following a fall during a training session. According to a press release from the production team, Zack sustained injuries that require a period of rest, making it impossible for him to fulfill the physical demands of the role. “My heart bleeds,” Zack stated in the official announcement. “It was so much fun with this great team. I would have really loved to continue, but sometimes that’s how it is—health comes first.”
Who is Dirc Simpson?
Dirc Simpson is a familiar face to Bad Segeberg audiences, having appeared in multiple previous Karl-May-Spiele productions. He previously portrayed Sam Hawkens in 2012, 2013, and 2016. Because of his extensive history with the festival and familiarity with the character, production organizers selected him as the immediate replacement. Simpson began rehearsals for Tal des Todes (Valley of Death) immediately following the announcement of Zack’s departure to ensure the production remains on schedule for the late June opening.
Production schedule and impact
The sudden change in casting comes just weeks before the season begins. The Karl-May-Spiele, held annually at the Kalkberg Stadium in Bad Segeberg, relies on intense physical coordination between actors and horses. According to the production schedule, the show Winnetou II – Tal des Todes is slated to run from June 27 through September 7, 2025. Despite the casting disruption, the organizers have confirmed that the premiere date remains unchanged.
Key Facts About the Production Change
- Role: Sam Hawkens
- Incoming Actor: Dirc Simpson
- Outgoing Actor: Volker Zack
- Reason for Change: Injury sustained during horse-riding rehearsal
- Premiere Date: June 27, 2025
Historical context of casting changes
Last-minute replacements are rare but not unprecedented in the theater industry, particularly in outdoor productions involving live animals. The Karl-May-Spiele has maintained a reputation for continuity, with many actors returning for multiple seasons. By bringing back a veteran performer like Simpson, the production minimizes the transition time required for choreography and dialogue pacing. This shift allows the cast to maintain the momentum built during early spring rehearsals, ensuring the production meets the standards expected by the festival’s audience.