All dates
Le Grand Macabre
15.03.2026 - 25.03.2026 | Wiener Staatsoper
Details:
Prophesied armageddons generally disappoint. In his only opera, Le Grand Macabre, György Ligeti created a large, discursive world theatre in which the plain, unvarnished human condition with all its drives and weaknesses is the cause of nothing less than an impending apocalypse. Into an imaginary, corrupt land of milk and honey – Breughelland, a vision of gluttony, drunkenness and lechery – Death arrives one day, otherwise known as Nekrotzar or the demonic Grand Macabre, to announce the impending destruction of the world and frivolous humanity. However, seduced by the pleasures of life, which he is unfamiliar with, the only person to die at the end is Nekrotzar himself. Everyone else draws the conclusion that their temporary survival should be used to continue their previous lifestyle.
ATTENTION: The actual beginning time for performances at the Vienna State Opera without time specification have been not yet announced, actual beginning time of those performances will be published by the Vienna State Opera and on our web site at latest 1 month in advance. The user is due to provide himself with the accurate beginning time for those performances.
At every seat and standing room space in the auditorium, you can follow the performance reading German or English subtitles. Please switch on the monitor by pressing the pushbutton and select your language.
program
Le grand Macabre
Musik: György Ligeti → Oper in zwei Akten
Text: Michael Meschke & György Ligeti
nach La Balade du Grand Macabre
von Michel de Ghelderode
Place
Vienna State Opera – World-Renowned Stage for Opera and Ballet in the Heart of Vienna
The Vienna State Opera is one of the world's leading opera houses and a cultural landmark of Austria. Located prominently in the heart of Vienna, along the famous Ringstrasse, it offers outstanding opera productions featuring international stars and a renowned ballet ensemble.
Since its grand opening in 1869, the Vienna State Opera has been synonymous with musical excellence, artistic perfection, and an extensive repertoire ranging from operatic classics to contemporary works. Each season, it stages more than 300 performances, including world-famous operas such as Mozart’s "The Magic Flute", Verdi’s "La Traviata", and Puccini’s "Tosca".
Alongside its acclaimed opera productions, the Vienna State Opera is also home to the celebrated Vienna State Ballet, renowned for both classical and contemporary dance performances. The annual Vienna Opera Ball is a prestigious social event with international prominence.
Getting There by Public Transport
Subway:
- Lines U1, U2, U4 – Karlsplatz station, direct access
Tram:
- Lines 1, 2, D, 62, 71 – Oper/Karlsplatz stop
Bus:
- Line 59A – Oper stop
Its central location on Vienna’s Ringstrasse ensures convenient and easy access.
Vienna State Opera – A Symbol of Viennese Culture and Musical Excellence
As one of the world's premier opera houses, the Vienna State Opera is an essential destination for opera enthusiasts, music lovers, and visitors seeking to experience the cultural heart of Vienna.
Dates March 2026
Vienna, Wiener Staatsoper Further events at this venue
Address: Opernring 2
1010 Vienna
Austria
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