Backstage Tour Areas

Overview

Step behind the velvet curtains and into the bustling world of the Vienna State Opera's backstage areas, a sub-spot within one of the globe's most prestigious opera houses, located in Vienna, Austria. A guided backstage tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the intricate mechanisms and hidden spaces that bring world-class operatic and ballet productions to life every evening. These captivating tours typically last around 40 minutes, providing a comprehensive look at the history, stunning architecture, and daily operations of this cultural institution. It's an immersive experience for anyone curious about the magic of the performing arts beyond the audience's view.

History & Cultural Background

The magnificent Vienna State Opera building, known in German as the Wiener Staatsoper, first opened its doors on May 25, 1869, initially under the name 'Vienna Court Opera' (Wiener Hofoper). Designed by architects August Sicard von Sicardsburg and Eduard van der Nüll, its construction between 1861 and 1869 marked it as the first major building on the famous Vienna Ring Road. The grand inauguration was graced by Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth of Austria. After the establishment of the First Austrian Republic in 1921, it officially became known as the Vienna State Opera. Tragically, the building suffered severe damage during World War II bombings, particularly its auditorium and stage areas. It was meticulously rebuilt and triumphantly reopened in 1955. Today, this Neo-Renaissance masterpiece stands as a testament to Vienna's enduring love for music and theatre, serving as the home of the Vienna State Ballet and from whose orchestra members of the esteemed Vienna Philharmonic are recruited.

What Makes It Special

The Vienna State Opera is renowned for being one of the world's most significant and active opera houses, boasting an extensive repertoire that includes approximately 60 different operas and 21 ballets, performed on about 300 days a year. The backstage tour offers an unparalleled look into the sheer scale of this operation, revealing areas typically hidden from public view. Visitors can admire the stunning Grand Staircase and ornate ceremonial rooms, such as the Teesalon, Marmorsaal, Schwindfoyer, and the Gustav-Mahler-Saal. A highlight is often the chance to view the colossal stage, a marvel of engineering, along with its intricate technologies that facilitate rapid scene changes and elaborate setups. Learning about the dedication of the roughly 950 staff members, including 200 stagehands, and the immense collection of some 180,000 costumes, truly underscores the monumental effort behind each performance.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The building itself holds captivating tales. The initial public reception was not entirely favorable, and legend has it that one of its architects, Eduard van der Nüll, tragically took his own life after Emperor Franz Joseph I criticized aspects of the design. Despite this, the Emperor himself had a luxurious private tea room, the Teesalon, which visitors on the tour may still see. Interestingly, the auditorium and stage areas, rebuilt after wartime destruction, were given a more modern aesthetic compared to the opulent historic front sections of the building. During the tour, you might witness the incredible transformation of the stage as crews prepare for vastly different productions, perhaps transitioning from an ancient Egyptian setting for 'Aida' to 16th-century Cyprus for 'Otello'. Another fascinating detail is that the orchestra stalls are famously transformed once a year into a grand ballroom for the prestigious Vienna Opera Ball, a highlight of Vienna's social calendar. The daily rhythm of the backstage world, from early morning preparations to late-night dismantling, is a testament to the seamless artistry achieved through tireless effort and precision.

Visitor Perspective

For the curious traveler, embarking on a backstage tour of the Vienna State Opera is a highly recommended experience. Tours are regularly offered in German, English, and Spanish, with other languages like Italian, French, Russian, and Japanese sometimes available by prior arrangement. It is advisable to check the official Vienna State Opera website for current tour schedules and to make reservations, especially for groups, as online booking is recommended to secure a spot. Visitors are generally advised to arrive at the tour ticket office at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time. Conveniently located at Opernring 2 in the heart of Vienna, the opera house is easily accessible via various public transportation options, including the U-Bahn, tram, and bus. While the historic nature of the building presents some accessibility challenges, the institution endeavors to accommodate visitors with limited mobility. It's an opportunity to connect with the living history and dynamic present of one of the world's great cultural treasures.