About this event
It was an event—no, an occasion.
At the beginning of last season, the Vienna State Opera presented its first-ever Opera Air in Vienna’s Burggarten. The concept was simple: take a special—indeed historic—location in Vienna, add outstanding soloists, the orchestra, the chorus and the children’s chorus of the State Opera, and let them all perform outdoors on a balmy evening. Complement this with an exquisite musical programme spanning the history of opera. And the whole event: free of charge.
The success was immediate. Filled with anticipation, many visitors streamed into the park long before the performance began, camped beneath the trees and set the mood for the evening. In the end, thousands experienced the Vienna State Opera in the park. And as the ORF broadcast the event, many more were able to enjoy the programme.
It was about a musically magnificent evening. It was about the opening of the season. But it was also about opening the house on the Ring and giving those unfamiliar with opera the opportunity to explore it in an informal, accessible way. And when one recalls the many visitors who, after the concert, made their way towards the State Opera to quickly take a selfie with the building, it becomes clear just how successful the evening was.
The 2026/27 season, too, will begin with an Opera Air. Once again, renowned names will be featured: the incomparable Asmik Grigorian, one of the most exciting artists of our time; audience favourite and internationally acclaimed tenor Piotr Beczała; the ever-celebrated and brilliant tenor Juan Diego Flórez; and, finally, one of the most beautiful baritone voices of our time, Ludovic Tézier. The evening will also feature Axel Kober, one of the leading conductors of our time, who has already been responsible for many thrilling performances at the Vienna State Opera.