The "Verfremdungseffekt," or "alienation effect," is a theatrical technique developed by the playwright and director Bertolt Brecht. It aims to prevent the audience from becoming too emotionally involved in the story, encouraging them to think critically about the social and political themes presented. By creating a sense of distance, the audience is prompted to reflect on the issues rather than simply experiencing the narrative. This effect can be achieved through various methods, such as breaking the fourth wall, using narration, or incorporating songs that comment on the action. The goal is to foster a more analytical engagement with the performance, allowing viewers to question the status quo and consider alternative perspectives.