Cultural icon Topsy Küppers dies at the age of 93 – a loss for Vienna!

Cultural icon Topsy Küppers dies at the age of 93 – a loss for Vienna!

Vienna is mourning the loss of one of its greatest artists: Topsy Küppers, the legendary chansonette, actress and founder of the Freie Bühne Wieden, has died at the age of 93. This sad news was confirmed by her daughter, actress Sandra Kreisler. Küppers, who is considered a true cultural pioneer, leaves behind a rich legacy in the Austrian cabaret scene.

Born on August 17, 1931 in Aachen, Küppers trained in acting, dance and singing in Germany. Her first engagements took her through cities such as Hamburg, Berlin and Munich. In the 1950s and 1960s she also appeared in classic tearjerker films, including “We Like the World” and “The Wild Auguste”.

A life in Vienna

She moved to Vienna in 1962 with her husband, the cabaret artist Georg Kreisler. For Küppers, the city became the “most important art city in the world” and the home of her greatest successes. In 1976 she founded the Freie Bühne Wieden, which she directed for 25 years. Here their programs, which dealt with important social issues such as misogyny, anti-Semitism and fascism, found a loving home. Her most famous piece, “Tonight: Lola Blau”, has been performed over 1,000 times and is still one of the classics of local cabaret to this day.

Thanks to their tireless commitment, the Freie Bühne Wieden became the home for numerous great artists. Erika Pluhar and Christiane Hörbiger, among others, appeared here. In her programs, Küppers combined humor and seriousness and thus touched the hearts of many theatergoers.

Recognition and awards

Topsy Küppers has received several awards for her achievements, including the City of Vienna's Culture Prize and the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art. Mayor Michael Ludwig praised her as a defining figure of cultural life in Vienna, while City Councilor for Culture Veronica Kaup-Hasler emphasized her courage in the fight against anti-Semitism and misogyny.

• Kulturpreis der Stadt Wien
• Österreichisches Ehrenkreuz für Wissenschaft und Kunst
• Berufstitel Professor

But handing over the management of the theater was also difficult. Küppers wanted a woman as his successor, which led to disagreements. The planned contract with Ricky May did not materialize, and Gerald Szyszkowitz ultimately became her successor, followed by Michaela Ehrenstein in 2010.

Küppers not only leaves behind stage works, but also books and CDs, including “All dreams lead to Vienna” and “Loud Dear People”, which became pieces of the heart for many fans. Their programs include titles like "Pardon? If I deviate...", "Hacked Zores" and "Oldies are Goldies".

Her life's work will not only be remembered, but will also inspire future generations. Farewell to Topsy Küppers, a true legend of Viennese cabaret. Responsible voices in the culture and among friends will surely continue to testify to what a great light she was. As Salzburg24 reports, her loss will leave a deep echo in the scene that she significantly influenced.