On 5 April, 1874, on what is now Linke Wienzeile, the curtain rose on a world premiere that was to change the genre of operetta, the life of composer Johann Strauss and consequently the history of the Theater an der Wien forever. Die Fledermaus delighted in erasing all boundaries: the distinctions between light theatre and grand opera, entertainment and serious music, fantasy and reality, magnificent balls and rowdy gaols, aristocrats and servants were all washed away by champagne. Although hugely popular all over the world, Die Fledermaus remains a work that belongs to Vienna more than any other. It was included on programmes under every conceivable circumstance, since the gaiety of the waltz also helps to sweep the occasional misdeed under the carpet … The MusikTheater an der Wien is not about to let the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss pass without celebrating the “king of all operettas” with a new production. And just as at the world premiere, the theatre’s director is again involved in an artistic capacity: a good 150 years ago, director Marie Geistinger starred as Rosalinde, while today it is her latest successor in that role, Stefan Herheim, who directs the production.

In German with German and English surtitles
Introduction to the work 30 minutes before curtain-up

With thanks to Johann Strauss 2025 for their support

Attention!

Strobe effects (flashing lights) are used during the performance. Certain flashing frequencies may trigger seizures in people with epilepsy or those at risk of epilepsy.