Sissi Gets a Styrian Makeover: Hilarious New Play Brings Empress Elisabeth to Wildon – Breaking News
Wildon, Styria – Forget the historical dramas! A fresh, funny take on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as Sissi, is captivating audiences in Wildon. The Wildon Schlossbergbühne, a beloved local theater group, is currently staging “Sissi in Wildon,” a comedic play that playfully riffs on the iconic Sissi films of the 1950s, complete with the era’s unforgettable hit music. This isn’t your grandmother’s Sissi – it’s a vibrant, locally-driven production making waves in Austrian cultural circles, and it’s breaking news for theater lovers.
A Royal Escape to Styria?
The play playfully imagines a scenario where the constraints of Viennese court life become too much for the Empress, leading her to seek refuge in the idyllic landscapes of Styria. “It is an idyllic Platzerl that has been playing the Schlossberg stage in Wildon for almost 50 years. And who knows? Perhaps Empress Elisabeth has also fled here,” the production playfully suggests, hinting at a lighthearted reimagining of history. This isn’t about strict historical accuracy; it’s about embracing the spirit of fun and the enduring fascination with Sissi.
Hair, Humor, and Catchy Tunes: The Recipe for Success
Sara Mayrhofer, who embodies Empress Elisabeth on stage, emphasizes the playful approach to the role. “You shouldn’t see it very historically, but already inspired by her and with a great emphasis on her hair,” she explains. Indeed, the Empress’s famously elaborate hairstyles are a central visual element of the production. But the humor doesn’t stop there. Director Jürgen Gerger reveals the play also satirizes the Empress’s well-known obsession with culture and slimming, weaving in the catchy tunes from the original Sissi films. Musician Georg Jantscher adds, “Absolute catchy tunes, not only because of the original, but also because of the vocal texts that come from the author and are said to be funny.”
From Quarry Workers to Courtiers: The Heart of Amateur Theater
What truly sets “Sissi in Wildon” apart is the dedication and passion of the Wildon Schlossbergbühne, a truly amateur theater troupe. The cast is comprised of individuals from all walks of life – from former quarry workers to IT professionals – united by their love of the stage. “From the former quarry worker, to the student, from the accountant to the IT-Ler-everyone is there with us. What connects us is the passion for drama, to the theater,” says Mario Diestler, the chairman of the group. The play even introduces a thrilling element with a young Italian character harboring assassination plans, adding a layer of suspense to the comedic chaos. The question remains: is the court society as it seems, or is it all part of the act?
Why This Matters: The Enduring Appeal of Sissi and the Power of Local Theater
The enduring popularity of Empress Elisabeth, even centuries after her death, speaks to a timeless fascination with royalty, romance, and rebellion. This production taps into that fascination while simultaneously celebrating the vibrant spirit of local Austrian theater. The Wildon Schlossbergbühne’s commitment to accessible, community-based art is a testament to the power of theater to bring people together. For those interested in SEO and Google News indexing, this story highlights the importance of local cultural events and their potential to generate online buzz. The play runs until July 26th, offering audiences a unique and entertaining experience. Don’t miss the chance to witness this delightful reimagining of a beloved historical figure.
This story accompanies the program “Styria today”, ORF 2, 18.7.2025.
Learn more about the Wildon Schlossbergbühne
