Volksoper Vienna mourns the death of Kammersänger Rudolf Wasserlof (94)

Volksoper Vienna mourns the death of Kammersänger Rudolf Wasserlof (94)

The Viennese cultural scene has lost one of its greats: KS Rudolf Wasserlof died on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at the age of 94 in Vienna. The talented bass-baritone leaves behind an impressive career that was anchored at the heart of the Volksoper for almost four decades. Wasserlof was not only a valued artist, but also an honorary member of the Vienna Volksoper, which underlines his tireless commitment to the performing arts.

During his impressive career, Wasserlof appeared in more than 2,500 performances of operas, operettas and musicals. Over 26 premieres as well as two premieres and an Austrian premiere - including his participation in Marcel Rubin's "Clothes Make People" in 1973 - testify to his acting and singing talent. His last appearances at the Volksoper were as a frog in “Die Fledermaus”.

Artistic versatility and commitment

The native of Vienna was born on August 1, 1931. His artistic training included studying acting at the Max Reinhardt Seminar and singing at the University of Music in Vienna. He also appeared in feature films under the stage name Rudi Walter. He also gained experience at various stages, including the St. Pölten City Theater, the Theater in der Josefstadt and the famous Simpl cabaret.

One of the most striking aspects of his career were the foreign guest appearances that took him to 13 different cities from the USA to Japan. His repertoire of roles in opera, operetta and musicals was as wide-ranging as it was impressive. His most famous roles included the gangster in “Kiss me, Kate!”, Delacqua in “A Night in Venice” and Ferdinand Weigl in “A Waltz Dream”.

Recognition for his life's work

Wasserlof was recognized not only for his artistic achievements, but also for his contribution to culture as a whole. In 1987 he received the title of Kammersänger, and in 1999 he was awarded the Cross of Honor for Science and Art. Even after his retirement from the stage, he remained connected to the Volksoper and often appeared at special events.

His multifaceted talent is also evident in music. His participation in the Theater an der Wien ensemble, for example under the direction of Yossi Yadin, has left a lasting mark. With various pieces and authors, Wasserlof has contributed to enriching and developing the Viennese music scene Deezer can be found.

A life's work full of dedication and creativity. KS Rudolf Wasserlof will never be forgotten and will leave the gaps in the hearts of the people who knew and revered him. His great contributions to the Volksoper and to Austrian culture as a whole will continue to have a place in the memory of the people of Vienna in the future.

The cultural scene will continue to advocate for a critical public, as was made clear at the recent ceremony for the writer and award winner Doron Rabinovici. Art and Culture State Secretary Andrea Mayer recalled how important critical voices are and how they challenge society's collective conscience, which is particularly important today, reports meinkreis.at.