The Weimar Republic was the government of Germany from 1919 to 1933.

The nation was facing its defeat in World War I under the Treaty of Versailles, which mandated severe reparations, territory loss and military restrictions. It oversaw a number of other problems, including economic depression and hyperinflation.

The world premiere of “Weimar” is presented by Crowded Kitchen Players, Oct. 2-18, Charles A. Brown Ice House, Bethlehem.

The opening night Oct. 2 performance was seen for this review.

The two-hour play takes place in two acts in the Berlin apartment or Annaliese Bergmann (Trish Cipoletti) where a party takes place on New Year’s Eve of 1932.

Annaliese orders her guests to have a good time despite Germany’s troubles. She also says they are not allowed to mention the name of Hitler. Despite recent election losses by the Nazis, Hitler was named chancellor in January of 1933.

Although there is an attempt at a holiday atmosphere, which includes a pianist (Danny Black), the conversations are about politics. Thomas Edgecombe (Colin Core), an American visitor at the party, is a sounding board for some of the basic facts about the republic.

Denise Shelton plays Elisabeth Förster-Nietzsche, an actual historical figure who was the sister of Freidrich Nietzsche. In the play, she defends the Nazis. Historically, she was largely responsible for co-opting her brother’s philosophy to their purposes.

Except for some flirtation by the American and the widow Vera (Jen DiSante), the characters are focused on discussing the state of their country.

Heinrich Schumacher (Nick Lopez) and Herr Kistenmacher (Dave Polgar) pretty much reflect views of the time. Goldwasser (Nathan C. Kuhns), a Jew, presents mild rebuttals.

Herr Riemenschneider (Magnus Lawlor) is concerned about the persecution of minorities.

The widows Frieda (Pamela McLean Wallace) and Greta (Peggy Mulligan) have monologues where they reflect on elements of German society and history. Magdelena (Sharon Ferry) makes occasional comments.

The quiet Anna (Alexandra Racines) comes forward to describe her abuse as a foster child.

The high-toned set includes a cocktail bar that spreads out over the stage. It was designed by Tony Award- winner Richard Hoover.

The women’s elegant gowns are exceptionally striking, with ample glitter that would be blinding if the lights were too bright.

The play, written and directed by Ara Barlieb with music by Charlie Barnett, is unusual for relying on narrative and understated emotion.

All the major topics of the Weimar Republic are covered, including Berlin’s degeneracy in the face of crisis and pre-war killings. There is even an historical story about St. Sylvester and the Emperor Constantine.

It gets a bit complicated, and it takes a little time to get used to the German accents as you follow the history, but the overall atmosphere becomes clear.

The party in “Weimar” does not turn out to be that festive, but the play is a fascinating look at an era that is not that familiar to most Americans.

“Weimar,” 7:30 p.m. Oct. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17; 2 p.m. Oct. 4, 11, 18, Charles A. Brown Ice House, 56 River St., Bethlehem. 610-704-6974, https://www.ckplayers.com/