The biggest star of the 67th Opera Ball on Thursday was Johann Strauss. Nearly the entire opening of the evening was dedicated to celebrating the 200th birthday of the legendary “Waltz King.” The country’s top officials, including President Alexander Van der Bellen and Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg (ÖVP), attended the event, but the political representation was otherwise sparse.
President Van der Bellen, who had already attended the rehearsal as a surprise guest, was accompanied by the “Scientist of the Year,” climate economist Sigrid Stagl. Chancellor Schallenberg attended without an official guest. He also commented on the likely upcoming government coalition of ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos: “I have always believed that we will have a government, and I believe we will have a great Chancellor,” Schallenberg said.
Other government members included Culture Minister Werner Kogler and Justice Minister Alma Zadic (both Greens). Former European Parliament Vice-President Othmar Karas also attended. Former Chancellor Sebastian Kurz arrived with his former associate, Minister Elisabeth Köstinger.
Humor from Opera Director Rošcic
Opera Director Bogdan Rošcic humorously commented on the low political turnout, suggesting that some potential future government members might not want to be seen at the Opera Ball amidst the current austerity program. However, Vienna’s Finance City Councilor Peter Hanke (SPÖ), who is rumored for the infrastructure ministry, was present.
Waltzes and Performances Delight Guests
Despite the sparse political presence, the opening ceremony shone brightly. The Vienna State Opera showcased why the Opera Ball is one of Austria’s most popular events. After the traditional procession of the opening committee, 20 dancers in black costumes, supported for the first time by young talent from the opera’s ballet school, danced a version of “Kaiserwalzer,” choreographed by Martin Schläpfer.
Soprano Nadine Sierra, one of the rising young singers of today, performed the first vocal piece, Strauss’ famous “Frühlingswalzer,” which was warmly received by the audience. The ball then took the audience to 19th-century Madrid, where tenor Juan Diego Flórez sang “Bella Enamorada” from El último romántico.
The next stop was Venice, where a famous operetta melody “Alle maskiert” from Eine Nacht in Venedig was performed by Sierra, Maria Nazarova, Flórez, and Daniel Jenz.
A Missing Legend: Richard Lugner
One notable absence was construction mogul Richard Lugner, who passed away last summer. His appearances with international stars had long been a fixture at the Opera Ball. In his box this year was street artist and DJ Alec Monopoly, with a symbolic seat left empty for Lugner.
Celebrity Guests
The Opera Ball still attracted high-profile guests. Leni Klum, daughter of German supermodel Heidi Klum, attended by invitation from the Swarovski family and described the evening as feeling “like a princess.” Other guests included singer Sasha, model Candice Swanepoel, actor Ed Westwick, and choreographer Bruce Darnell.
Among the notable attendees were Vienna’s Mayor Michael Ludwig (SPÖ), former Chancellor Werner Faymann, Vienna ÖVP leader Karl Mahrer, and former ORF head Alexander Wrabetz, as well as several regional governors.
Peaceful Protests
There were also small demonstrations against the Opera Ball that concluded before the opening ceremony. The protests remained peaceful, and there were no incidents, according to police spokesperson Anna Gutt.
