New splendor for the Gloria Theater: Claudia Rohnefeld is directing!
Claudia Rohnefeld becomes the new director of the Gloria Theater in Floridsdorf. Opening in 2026 with a focus on comedy and tradition.

New splendor for the Gloria Theater: Claudia Rohnefeld is directing!
It is with great anticipation that the cultural landscape in Vienna will be enriched by the appointment of Claudia Rohnefeld as the new principal of the renowned Gloria Theater. After the theater found itself in an uncertain situation following the death of Gerald Pichowetz and the associated insolvency proceedings, Rohnefeld brought a breath of fresh air into the traditional institution. As a trained cultural manager and with experience from various areas of the theater and cultural scene Wien.orf.at, Rohnefeld's goal is to establish the Gloria Theater as an important cultural focal point in Vienna.
As part of her first steps, Rohnefeld is already planning the first performance for spring 2026. This reopening will mark a return to the theater's roots and at the same time set new accents. Under her artistic direction, Michael Mittermeir, who will take over the commercial management, will also be available DFZ21. Mittermeir has great confidence in the joint concept, which aims to make the Gloria Theater an attractive place for theater lovers.
Tradition and innovation combined
“We want to honor the legacy of Gerald Pichowetz and at the same time push forward the reorientation of the theater,” explains Rohnefeld. The character of the Gloria Theater as a tabloid theater with a clear focus on light-hearted comedies should continue to be the focus. Viewers can look forward to numerous audience favorites and entertaining productions Kurier.
For Rohnefeld, returning to the Gloria Theater is particularly emotional because she has family roots in the 21st district: her grandfather ran several hairdressers in Floridsdorf. This connection has motivated her to take on her new role and numerous Floridsdorf residents have already congratulated her. In a conversation on the “Floridsdorfer Marktgefrische” podcast, she also discussed her preference for British comedies and her close relationship with Gerald Pichowetz.
A new room full of memories
The imminent opening of the Gerald Pichowetz Hall in the Gloria Theater will be particularly exciting. Rohnefeld plans to display awards and pictures of Pichowetz there to honor his memory. In addition, the actors' wardrobes need to be re-equipped. At the inventory auction, Rohnefeld and Mittermeir bought some technical equipment and the curtain to make the theater fit for the upcoming productions DFZ21.
The official reopening of the Gloria Theater is eagerly awaited, and both the theater community and audiences can look forward to an exciting program. Claudia Rohnefeld has big plans – the first steps have already been taken!