The third act of Dr. Sander's Horror Hour, which has become a HÕFF tradition, serving as both the launch of a new book and the first public performance of the play.

Mart Sander, who has previously showcased both his films and books at HÕFF, is doing something new this year: for the first time, a horror stage play will also be presented to PÖFF audiences.

A female bullfighter who was a spy. A criminal nun. A baroness who outwitted the Devil. What connects them all? The fact that they were real women from the von Rosen family, a lineage tied to Estonia for over 800 years. Their fascinating life stories have inspired a mystical collection of short stories and a play where historical facts blend with fantasy.

This summer, Sander will direct his mystery-tinged drama "The Rose Key" at Mäetaguse Manor in Ida-Virumaa. The play explores the dark legends—or even true stories—that have always surrounded the women of the von Rosen noble family. HÕFF audiences will see one tale from the play: the legend of Agnes von Rosen (1500–1586), about whom rumors spread that she had made a pact with the Devil.

On May 1st, the now traditional "Dr. Sander’s Hour of Horrors" will take place, serving as both the launch of a new book and the first public performance of the play. In addition, audiences will see Sander's new CGI-animated short film, "Abysslock," inspired by the philosophical space adventures of Stanisław Lem, which is part of a collection currently being adapted into a full-length feature dedicated to Lem.