Bob Dylan Brings Musical Spring to Lake Traunsee at Gmunden

“Girl From the North Country” to Premiere in Gmunden, Bringing Bob Dylan‘s Music to German-Speaking Audiences

GMUNDEN, Austria – december 1, 2025 – The Musical Spring in Gmunden is set to launch its eleventh season with the highly anticipated production of “Girl from the North Country,” the international musical sensation featuring the iconic music of Bob Dylan. After achieving critical acclaim on London’s West End, Broadway, and in numerous productions worldwide, the musical will make its debut in German-speaking countries in Gmunden.

the Gmunden team, led by artistic directors Elisabeth Sikora and Markus Olzinger, secured the rights to the production after a four-year pursuit. “Girl From the North Country” isn’t a biographical retelling of Dylan’s life, but rather a compelling story penned by Irish playwright Conor McPherson.Set in 1934 in Duluth, Minnesota, the musical unfolds within a struggling guesthouse, bringing together characters grappling with hope, despair, and the complexities of fate. Dylan’s timeless hits, including “Hurricane,” “Like a Rolling Stone,” “slow Train,” and “Forever Young,” weave throughout the narrative.

“It is a challenge and a great honor to be able to translate Bob Dylan,after all,he is a Nobel Prize winner for literature,” explains Elisabeth Sikora,who is currently undertaking the translation. The production will employ a unique bilingual approach, featuring songs in both German and English. “We decided on this mixed form because, on the one hand, we wanted to make the songs and story easy to understand for everyone and yet we also want to present the songs to die-hard Bob Dylan fans as they know them. but there will always be dramaturgical reasons why we switch to English and these moments will then also be understandable for people who perhaps don’t speak English very well or hardly at all.”

The production will boast a top-tier cast, including acclaimed Austrian actor Johannes Zeiler, known for his roles in film and television, in the leading male role.Markus Olzinger will once again helm the direction, with Jürgen Goriup serving as musical director.

This announcement follows the success of previous Gmunden productions, including “Saving Mozart,” which premiered in Gmunden last year and afterward enjoyed a successful run in London, earning the “Best Composition” award at the German Musical Theater Prize in Berlin. moreover, “Letters from Ruth,” originally premiered in Gmunden in 2023, is slated for a revival in Norwegian at the Trondheim Opera and recently played at the Stadttheater Fürth in Germany, and the Chamber Opera of the Theater an der Wien.

The Musical Spring in Gmunden continues to establish itself as a notable force in musical theater, bringing world-class productions to Austria and beyond. “Girl From the North Country” promises to be a rousing and emotionally resonant experience for audiences in 2026.

How did hosting Bob Dylan impact tourism and bookings in Gmunden and the Salzkammergut region?

The Concert: A Historic Night for Gmunden

On November 11th, 2024, the picturesque town of Gmunden, Austria, nestled on the shores of Lake Traunsee, witnessed a truly unforgettable event: a Bob Dylan concert. This marked a significant cultural moment for the Salzkammergut region, drawing music lovers and fans from across Europe. The performance, held at the seebühne Gmunden – an open-air stage directly on the lake – was part of Dylan’s ongoing “Rough and Rowdy Ways” world tour.

The choice of Gmunden as a tour stop was notable. While Dylan has performed extensively throughout Europe, selecting a smaller, more intimate venue like Gmunden offered a unique experience for both the artist and the audience. Lake traunsee, known for its stunning alpine scenery, provided a breathtaking backdrop for the legendary singer-songwriter’s performance.

Seebühne Gmunden: The Venue & Its Importance

The Seebühne Gmunden isn’t just a concert venue; it’s an integral part of Gmunden’s cultural identity.

* History: Established in 1924, the Seebühne has hosted a diverse range of performances, from operettas and musicals to concerts and theatrical productions.

* Unique setting: Its location directly on Lake Traunsee offers unparalleled views and a truly immersive experience. The stage is partially built over the water, creating a magical atmosphere.

* Capacity: The venue holds approximately 6,000 spectators, making it large enough to accommodate a significant audience while retaining a sense of intimacy.

* acoustics: The natural acoustics of the lake and surrounding mountains contribute to the remarkable sound quality at the Seebühne.

Hosting Bob Dylan elevated the Seebühne’s profile internationally,solidifying its reputation as a premier cultural destination in Austria. The event generated significant local economic activity,boosting tourism and supporting local businesses in gmunden and the wider Salzkammergut region.

The “Rough and Rowdy Ways” Tour & Dylan’s Performance Style

Bob Dylan’s “rough and Rowdy Ways” tour, supporting his 2020 album of the same name, has been characterized by a focus on his more recent material alongside reimagined versions of classic songs. His performance in Gmunden was no exception.

* Setlist Highlights: The concert featured a mix of tracks from “Rough and Rowdy Ways,” including “False Prophet” and “My Own Version of You,” alongside beloved classics like “like a Rolling Stone” and “Blowin’ in the Wind.”

* Dylan’s Evolving Style: Dylan’s vocal delivery has evolved over the years, becoming more gravelly and expressive. His current performances prioritize mood and atmosphere over strict adherence to original arrangements.

* Band Dynamics: Dylan’s backing band, featuring Charlie Sexton on guitar, has been praised for its musicianship and ability to complement Dylan’s unique style.

* minimal Stage Production: Dylan’s concerts are known for their minimalist stage production, focusing attention on the music itself.The stunning natural backdrop of Lake Traunsee further enhanced this effect in Gmunden.

Fan Reactions & Local Impact

The concert drew a diverse crowd, including long-time Dylan fans and those experiencing his music for the first time.

* Positive Reviews: Initial reports and fan reactions were overwhelmingly positive, praising Dylan’s performance and the unique atmosphere of the venue. Manny highlighted the emotional resonance of the music against the backdrop of the Austrian Alps.

* Tourism Boost: Hotels and restaurants in Gmunden and surrounding towns reported a significant increase in bookings leading up to and following the concert.

* Cultural Pride: The event instilled a sense of pride within the local community, showcasing Gmunden’s cultural vibrancy and attracting international attention.

* Social Media Buzz: The concert generated significant buzz on social media, with fans sharing photos and videos of the performance and the stunning scenery. Hashtags like #BobDylanGmunden and #LakeTraunsee trended on platforms like Twitter and Instagram.

Gmunden & the Salzkammergut region: A Tourist Destination

The Bob Dylan concert served as a powerful advertisement for Gmunden and the Salzkammergut region as a whole.

* Lake Traunsee: Known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountains, Lake Traunsee is a popular destination for swimming, sailing, and hiking.

* Gmunden’s Historic Charm: The town of Gmunden boasts a rich history, with a beautifully preserved medieval town center and the iconic Gmunden Castle.

* Salzkammergut’s cultural Offerings: The Salzkammergut region is renowned for its customary Austrian culture, including folk music, local cuisine, and charming villages.

* Accessibility: Gmunden is easily accessible by train and car, making