Salzburg State Theatre

In 1775, Prince-Archbishop Hieronymus Franz Josef von Colloredo-Mannsfeld ordered the "Fürsterzbischöfliches Hoftheater" be built to replace the Ballhaus which had stood at the location since 1625. Once completed, the building was officially opened with a performance of Christian Heinrich Schmid’s "Die Gunst des Fürsten". In honor of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, who had himself been a frequent guest and performer at the Landestheater, a performance of his opera “The Abduction from the Seraglio” in 1784 marked the beginning of an ongoing dedication to the Mozart repertoire. In 1944, the Salzburger Landestheater was forced to close towards the end of the war and was adapted for the needs of the American occupying forces in 1945.

In October 1971, the Salzburger Landestheater added a permanent small stage, known as the Kammerspiele, in the former Mirabell Casino. In the mid-80s, it was remodeled into a multi-function venue. The program focuses on modern contemporary drama, works of the older masters given a more updated interpretation, as well as children’s and youth theater.

Under the leadership of Lutz Hochstraate from 1986 to 2004, the ballet, theater and opera program was expanded to include children’s and youth theater. Since the 2009/10 season, the reins have been in the hands of Dr. Carl. Philip von Maldeghem. With respect to the musical stage, in addition to operetta and Italian opera the focus of the program is on nurturing the Mozart legacy as well as on Baroque and contemporary opera. Since October 2011, “The Sound of Music” has been the longest running theatrical production at the Landestheater.

In summer, the building with 707 officially approved seats is also used by the Salzburg Festival for plays as well as occasionally for opera productions. The Landestheater has its own theatrical, operatic and dance ensemble, while its orchestra in residence is Mozarteum Orchester Salzburg.

The world behind those well-trodden boards