Kasperl and Pezi received the "Golden Rathausmann"

In the Vienna City Hall, two of the city's most prominent citizens were honored on Thursday: Kasperl and Pezi. The dream team of local children's entertainment first appeared on the stage of the puppet theater in the Urania 75 years ago. For the anniversary, the two were welcomed by Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ) with a "hearty Krawuzikapuzi" and awarded a "Golden City Hall Man".

Appearance of Kasperl and Pezi Attracted Media Interest

The appearance of the two cult figures in the grand rooms of the City Hall attracted considerable media interest. Numerous honorary guests also attended the reception, foremost among them theater principal André Heller. He saved the institution in 2018, as it was threatened with closure due to the impending retirement of the then-director. The duo Kasperl and Pezi, also known from television, was created in the 1950s by the teacher couple Marianne and Hans Kraus and has since delighted not only young audiences.

The mayor revealed himself today as a big fan. Ludwig recounted early visits to the Urania: "I sat on my mother's lap and was thrilled." He reviewed the history of the theater and thanked Heller, among others, for his commitment.

Laudator Franz Schuh also pointed out the significance and great renown of the stage. The puppets, he emphasized, are dependent on people, however: "It is an art to lead them." This was also demonstrated at the ceremony. The honorees personally made an appearance.

"Are You All Here?"

Kasperl and the eternal young bear Pezi, who once spread good cheer with his family in the "Betthupferl", were initially puzzled. "We're in the wrong place, they're all so old," marveled Pezi. When a loud "Yesss" echoed from the audience in response to the obligatory question "Are you all here?", the two star guests were reconciled with the unfamiliar location.

They did not personally accept the City Hall Man, but sent representatives: Alexandra Filla and Florian Schwarz, the two people who play Pezi and Kasperl, respectively. Praise for the ensemble's work also came from Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen, who highlighted via video message: "For generations, you have created something very special, namely childhood memories."

(APA/Red)

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