Elisabeth concert proves a success for Semmel

The debut of a concert adaptation of popular German-language musical Elisabeth attracted 20,000 viewers over the weekend to the Court of Honour at Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna.

A collaboration between German promoter Semmel Concerts Entertainment, the Vienna Theatre Association (VTA) and local promoter Showfactory, the concert brought the musical back to its original setting in Vienna. The concert version was performed by the VTA orchestra.

Making its debut in 1992, Elisabeth documents the life, works and sufferings of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. The musical has been viewed around the world in a total of seven languages and by over 11 million people.

Due to the popularity of the event, the concert will return for three dates in 2020, from 25 to 27 June at the Schönbrunn Palace.

“There is no better way to stage Elisabeth than with a big orchestra and we look forward to continuing the international success story.”

“It is really special to showcase our worldwide success with a big concert in this exceptional historical setting,” says Christian Struppeck, musical director at the VTA.

“There is no better way to stage Elisabeth than with a big orchestra and we look forward to continuing the international success story.”

Dieter Semmelmann, chief executive of Semmel Concerts comments: “We are very happy with the outstanding realisation of this idea by all parties involved.”

Semmelmann adds that he was “honoured” by the “enthusiasm” from the writers of Elisabeth, Dr Michael Kunze and Sylvester Levay.

Tickets for the 2020 Elisabeth concerts are available here, with prices ranging from €59,50 (£53.50) to € 152,50 (£137).

Picture (left to right): VTA CEO Franz Patay, Schönbrunn Palace cultural director Klaus Panholzer, Elisabeth actress Pia Douwes, VTA musical director Christian Struppeck and Semmel Concerts CEO Dieter Semmelmann.

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