Ten years without Helmuth Lohner: A unique example of Viennese theater art

Ten years without Helmuth Lohner: A unique example of Viennese theater art

On June 23, 2013, the versatile artist Helmuth Lohner, who showed what he was capable of not only as an actor, but also as a theater director and director, died. His birthday, April 24, 1933, fell in Vienna-Ottakring, where he was born as the son of a locksmith. After an apprenticeship in the graphic arts industry and catching up on his high school diploma in evening courses, he decided to make his dream of acting come true. After private acting lessons, he made his debut at the Baden City Theater in 1952, which marked the start of an impressive career.

The path took him, among other things, to the Klagenfurt City Theater as an operetta buffo. From 1953 he was employed at the Theater in der Josefstadt, where he took part in over 60 premieres until 1963. His first encounter with the audience there was his appearance in “Südfrucht” on July 25, 1953. In the years that followed, Lohner also appeared regularly at the Vienna Burgtheater and at the Salzburg Festival, for a full 23 summers. He particularly shone for over ten years in Hofmannsthal's “Everyman”.

A man of diversity

The charm that Lohner was able to develop is not only reflected in his classic roles as Richard, Hamlet and Faust. He also performed brilliantly in comic roles. His work ranged from the most renowned stages in Berlin, Munich, Düsseldorf, Hamburg and Zurich. He not only shaped the Theater in der Josefstadt as an actor, but also managed its affairs as director from 1997 to 2006.

He also left his mark on film. Lohner made his debut in 1955 with “Hotel Adlon” by Josef von Báky. In the following years he was seen in popular entertainment films such as “The Wirtshaus im Spessart” and “The Beautiful Liar”. He was also active on television from 1963 and directed productions such as “My Grandpa is the Best” in the 90s.

Awards and commitment

As a crowd favorite, he was showered with numerous honors, including the Kainz Medal (1980) and the Nestroy Ring (1988). His acting talent was recognized with the title of “Austrian Chamber Actor” (1993) and honorary membership of the Theater in der Josefstadt (2003). The Golden Medal of Honor for Services to the State of Vienna (2006) also crowned his work. In addition, Lohner was committed to social issues throughout his life.

He suffered from esophageal cancer until his death and left behind not only his art, but also two daughters, Konstanze and Therese, as well as numerous fans and admirers. He found his final resting place in the Grinzing Cemetery in Vienna, where he will always be remembered as a masterful talent and a warm-hearted human character. As SN reports, his legacy remains alive in the local cultural landscape.

Helmuth Lohner will not be forgotten in memory of an actor and person who devoted his entire life to his craft with heart and passion.