Opera house grand vienna

The Vienna State Opera is one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, located in the heart of the Austrian capital.

About this subject

The Vienna State Opera, locally known as the Wiener Staatsoper, is one of the world's leading opera houses. Inaugurated on May 25, 1869, with Mozart's "Don Giovanni", the building was designed by architects August Sicard von Sicardsburg and Eduard van der Nüll in the Neo-Renaissance style. Construction faced controversy, leading to van der Nüll's suicide after public criticism. During World War II, the theater was severely damaged by bombing on March 12, 1945, and reopened only on November 5, 1955, with Beethoven's "Fidelio".

The house seats approximately 1,700 and has standing room for 567. Its stage is one of the largest in the world, measuring 22 meters wide by 15 meters deep. The resident orchestra is the Vienna Philharmonic, considered among the finest globally. The annual season includes about 300 performances, ranging from classic operas to contemporary works. The annual Opera Ball, the Opernball, is one of Austria's most important social events.

The auditorium's acoustics are exceptional, achieved through careful design using materials like wood and ornate plaster. Visitors can take backstage tours, including scenery and costume areas. The Vienna State Opera also has a strong tradition of live outdoor broadcasts via large screens at Herbert-von-Karajan Square, allowing the public to watch for free.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capacity of the Vienna State Opera?

The Vienna State Opera seats approximately 1,700 spectators and has standing room for 567.

When did it reopen after World War II?

It reopened on November 5, 1955, with Beethoven's "Fidelio".

Which orchestra is resident at the Wiener Staatsoper?

The resident orchestra is the Vienna Philharmonic, one of the world's most renowned.