Ceremonial Last Waltz in the concert hall: critical tones for the Strauss dynasty

Ceremonial Last Waltz in the concert hall: critical tones for the Strauss dynasty

On June 6, 2025, a special event of the series "Johann Strauss 2025 Vienna" took place in the renowned concert hall in Vienna. On this day, the anniversary of the funeral of Johann Strauss Jr. (died on June 3, 1899), the event was celebrated under the title "Save the Last Waltz for Me". This unique performance should not only appreciate the composer's legacy, but also address a younger audience who applauded in the foyers of the concert hall, even though the dances failed to materialize. This is a remarkable contrast to the lively Strauss dynasty of the 19th century, which was associated with a certain grace and elegance. While the modern sounds of music met the air, a short film by Oskar Haag and Oliver Welter was shown in the background, which offered the audience an introductory overview.

The program, which was referred to as the "theater disco", delighted the audience with appearances by artists such as Lino Camillo, Peaches, The Royal Strauss Language Orchestra and Naked Lunch. Another highlight was the presentation of a Kaiserwalzer paraphrase through the talented Verena Altenberger. To the crowning glory of this 105-minute event, Lars Eidinger took over the DJ desk and ensured the musical end.

an extensive anniversary program

The event was part of a much larger cultural festival that the city of Vienna plans on the occasion of Johann Strauss's 200th birthday. This ambitious program comprises a total of 65 productions and 3 exhibitions that take place at 69 different locations in Vienna. The variety of offers ranges from classic concerts to non-classic performances, operettas, theater performances to dance, circus, installations, exhibitions, film and science. A load -bearing element of this extensive celebrations is the valuable cooperation with the cemeteries Vienna, which also made it possible to take a film at the grave of Johann Strauss.

With a view to the upcoming events, you can say that Vienna has a very good hand. This initiative should not only put the classics of the great master into the spotlight, but also bring a breath of fresh air to today's music scene. The events are aimed not only at die-hard fans of the Strauss dynasty, but also to everyone who is curious about the contemporary interpretation of classical music.

Further information about the extensive program can be found at Johann Strauss 2025 or in District sheet , where the various event highlights are also highlighted.