Shining Opening of the Vienna Opera Ball with Johann Strauss as the Star

The 67th Vienna Opera Ball was dedicated to the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss. Large parts of the opening on Thursday evening were devoted to the Waltz King. Political prominence, however, was only sporadically present. Besides Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg (ÖVP), only a few top politicians attended the Vienna State Opera.

Van der Bellen, who already attended the dress rehearsal on Wednesday, appeared with climate economist Sigrid Stagl, while Schallenberg came without an official guest. When asked about the alleged next federal government of ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos, the Chancellor optimistically said: "I believe we will have a great Federal Chancellor."

Humorous Remark on Low Political Presence at the Opera Ball

From the current government, only Culture Minister Werner Kogler and Justice Minister Alma Zadić (both Green Party) attended the ball. Former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz appeared with former Minister Elisabeth Köstinger.

State Opera Director Bogdan Roščić humorously commented on the low political presence: "I could imagine that a few prospective government members do not want to be seen at the Opera Ball today in light of this austerity program." Among the few politicians present was Vienna's Finance City Councillor Peter Hanke (SPÖ), who is being considered for a ministerial position.

Dazzling Opera Ball Opening with Strauss Classics

The opening of the Vienna Opera Ball left nothing to be desired despite the restrained political participation. After the entrance of the opening committee, 20 artists, supported by the State Opera Ballet School, danced the "Kaiserwalzer" in a choreography by Martin Schläpfer.

The first vocal highlight was provided by soprano Nadine Sierra with the "Frühlingswalzer" by Johann Strauss. Subsequently, tenor Juan Diego Flórez musically transported the audience to 19th-century Madrid with "Bella Enamorada."

Operetta Sounds and Social Highlights

Upon arriving in Venice, the singers Maria Nazarova, Nadine Sierra, Juan Diego Flórez, and Daniel Jenz swayed to "All Masked" from A Night in Venice. The Santner dance school also chose a Strauss piece for the debutants: the "Violetta Polka". For the first time, a homosexual couple danced in the young ladies' and gentlemen's committee.

Empty Chair in Lugner's Box

The absence of Richard Lugner evoked special memories. The late builder had drawn attention for years with his prominent guests. In his honor, a seat remained empty in his box, while street artist and DJ Alec Monopoly acted as the new guest of the Lugner box.

Despite the rather low political participation, it remained a social event. Leni Klum, daughter of Heidi Klum, raved about her fairytale evening. Stars such as singer Sasha, model Candice Swanepoel, and actor Ed Westwick were also among the guests.

Opera Ball Demonstrations Were Peaceful

Accompanying the ball were smaller demonstrations, which, however, proceeded without incidents. According to police spokeswoman Anna Gutt, the situation remained peaceful.

Opening Attracted Nearly 1.4 Million Viewers on Average

With an average of 1.36 million viewers in front of their devices, the opening of the 67th Opera Ball at the Vienna State Opera took place on Thursday evening. According to ORF, which extensively covered the society event on ORF 2, this corresponded to a market share of 54 percent. Already for the broadcast of the "Arrival of the Guests" from 8:15 p.m., an average of 1.22 million viewers tuned in (market share: 43 percent).

At "The Festival" following the broadcast of "Zeit im Bild 2", an average of 670,000 viewers were still present at the first Opera Ball without the builder Richard Lugner, who passed away the previous year, during the later evening hours. The society icon reliably attracted a lot of attention in past decades with various international star guests. According to ORF, an additional approximately 1.22 million viewers in Germany were present at the opening via 3sat. The market share in the neighboring country was thus 4.4 percent throughout the evening.

(APA/Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.