Vienna State Opera: A symbol of classical music and culture
The Vienna Opera is one of the most important opera houses in the world. Since its opening in 1869, it has delighted audiences with its varied program and impressive architecture. International stars of the opera scene regularly perform here, and the famous Vienna Opera Ball takes place every year. The State Opera is a central location for music lovers and offers unforgettable experiences in the heart of Vienna.
Short info:
- Where is the State Opera? Opernring 2 / Herbert-von-Karajan-Platz, 1010 Vienna
- What is there to see there? Opera and ballet. Here you will find the schedule and ticket prices. Here the guided tours
- When is it open? Depending on the event; guided tours only after online reservation
- How much does the entrance fee cost? Depending on the event, with the NÖ-Card A one-time guided tour is free. The cheapest tickets are available from 14€
The State Opera General
The Vienna State Opera is undoubtedly one of the most famous and prestigious opera houses in the world. As one of the most important cultural centers in Vienna and Austria, the opera attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world every year.
The story
The history of the Vienna Opera dates back to the 19th century, when the building was constructed in neoclassical style. On May 25, 1869, the house was ceremoniously opened with Mozart's "Don Giovanni" in the presence of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth.
There is a dark period in the history of the house, which lasted from 1938 to 1945 during the Nazi regime. During this time, many members of the house were persecuted, expelled and even killed. In addition, numerous works that were performed in the house were banned. On March 12, 1945, the house on the Ring was badly damaged by bombing, but on May 1, 1945, the "State Opera in the Volksoper" opened with a performance of Mozart's "Le nozze di Figaro". On October 6, 1945, the Theater an der Wien, which had been hastily restored, reopened with Beethoven's "Fidelio".
The State Opera today
The Vienna State Opera's program is known for its outstanding quality and the variety of performances. It hosts operas, ballets and concerts performed by the best artists from all over the world. It is not unusual for performances to be sold out months in advance. Each piece is only performed 2-3 times a year. There are only 2 days in the whole year when there is no performance.
The Vienna State Opera is an important venue for the cultivation and dissemination of classical music and opera. Many great artists have started their careers or achieved their international breakthrough here. The Vienna State Opera also offers a platform for young, up-and-coming artists to show their skills and present themselves to a wide audience.
In addition to its outstanding artistic quality, the Vienna State Opera is also known for its impressive and magnificent interior. The magnificent rooms are a true feast for the eyes and reflect the splendor and glory of the Austrian monarchy.
guided tours
We can highly recommend the guided tour. During the guided tours an interesting look behind the scenes is provided. During a 40-minute tour you will learn a lot of interesting facts about the history of the house, its architecture and the opera. For example, the opera changes its program every day and the stage accordingly! For the opera "Aida" you need about 28 trucks to bring all the elements to the arsenal to store them until the next performance.
From the foyer, the grand staircase leads through the state rooms (Tea Salon, Marble Hall, Schwind Foyer, Gustav Mahler Hall) to the auditorium (with a view of the stage).
The tours are offered in German and English. Tours can only be purchased online (not by phone) or 30 minutes before the tour at the ticket office (entrance on the corner of Opernring and Operngasse). There are only a few remaining places available on site.
tickets
Here you can find the schedule and all ticketsPre-orders can be made for the entire season up to three days before the start of sales. The general sale always begins two months in advance on the first of the month, for the entire month.
Tip: The standing room box office opens daily 80 minutes before the start of the performance. Tickets can also be purchased at short notice.
The best places
If you are still wondering where the best place to sit is, we have the answer for you. For visitors who want legroom, we recommend seats in the stalls, rows K7 or K26. Otherwise, seats K14-K16. For ballet, seats A22 and A23 are a very good choice. Our tip for the best seat in the house: balcony, row 1, seats 1 and 3.
The Opera Ball
The Opera Ball is known worldwide. It is an annual dance event that takes place in the Vienna State Opera and is considered one of the most important social events in Austria. It is an event where celebrities, politicians and business representatives come together to dance, celebrate and network. The guests wear elegant evening wear, while the event is accompanied by a large number of media representatives from all over the world. Anyone who wants to can buy tickets. The performance costs €360 and entitles you to dance all evening. Consumption is of course extra.
And for a mere 24,000€ you can even rent a box
Famous guests in recent years have included Roger Moore, Harry Belafonte, Sophia Loren, Grace Jones, Pamela Anderson and Kid Rock, Brigitte Nielsen, Ivana Trump, Andie MacDowell, Paris Hilton, Kim Kardashian and more.
Conclusion
Overall, it can be said that the Vienna Opera is a cultural jewel that attracts not only Viennese people but also tourists from all over the world. The opera house is an important part of the Viennese cultural scene and a place where one can experience the diversity and beauty of classical music and opera theater.
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