The Austrian author Anna Gmeyner wrote "Automatenbüfett" (Automated Buffet) in 1932 – a time of profound upheaval. "Europe is a powder keg, into which the spark could fall at any moment," the play states. Despite the political volatility of its context, "Automatenbüfett" paints a warmhearted picture of the so-called little people – and the very poor – who make their way through life with diligence, wit, and resourcefulness. They maintain their humor and hope, even when everything ultimately goes wrong. One thing, however, remains certain: desire and love cannot be extinguished.