Stadttheater Leoben

Stadttheater Leoben, nestled in the heart of Leoben, Austria, is a cultural gem that has been captivating audiences for over two centuries. As the oldest civic theater in Austria, it celebrated its 225th anniversary in 2015, marking a rich history of artistic and community engagement. This charming theater, with its classicist architecture and storied past, offers visitors a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of Leoben.

The Early Days and the 19th Century

The vision of a civic theater in Leoben dates back to the 18th century. By 1790, the dream became a reality when the Hofstätterisches Haus at Homanngasse 5 was transformed into a theater. Funded largely by the local populace, the theater was a true community project, seen as a theater by the people, for the people. Initially, it was managed by a society that directed the profits towards charitable causes. By 1830, the theater boasted an 18-member troupe and had hosted notable guests, including Karl X of France, Maria Christina of Naples and Sicily, and Anton, King of Saxony.

The current building, a two-story classicist structure, was constructed around 1850. Initially, the performances were amateur, but over time, a dedicated ensemble was formed. In 1861, the municipality took over and subsidized the theater, ushering in a new era of professional management. The theater saw performances by renowned figures, such as Ludwig Anzengruber in 1864. The 100th anniversary in 1891 was celebrated with numerous premieres, including works by Johann Nestroy and Henrik Ibsen.

The late 19th century saw the introduction of operettas to Leoben, with performances of Die Fledermaus and Der Zigeunerbaron by Johann Strauss II, as well as Jacques Offenbach's Orpheus in the Underworld.

The 20th Century: Challenges and Triumphs

The turn of the century brought a surge in popularity for the Leoben theater, attracting many court actors. Significant plays, such as Goethe's Faust, were performed for the first time. However, the outbreak of World War I brought challenges, including a decline in audience and staff, leading to the cessation of municipal subsidies.

In 1915, during the war, Robert Roberti took over as director and revitalized the theater, using it to support war widows, orphans, and hospitals. Post-war, the theater briefly became a cinema before reverting to its original purpose in 1921. The 1920s saw performances by future stars like Paula Wessely. However, the Great Depression of the 1930s affected the theater, leading to financial struggles and low attendance.

During World War II, the theater was renamed several times, reflecting the political changes of the era. In 1941, the Stadttheater Baden's ensemble performed Die Nibelungen to celebrate the theater's 150th anniversary. Post-war, efforts were made to establish a new ensemble and create a three-city theater for Leoben, Bruck an der Mur, and Kapfenberg.

One of the highlights of the 1940s was the 1949 outdoor performance of Hugo von Hofmannsthal's Jedermann, with Attila Hörbiger in the title role. This marked the final performance of the city ensemble due to economic constraints. In 1962, long-time director Robert Roberti retired, and the theater's interior was renovated in 1965, preserving only the historicist stucco ceiling. The 175th anniversary in 1966 featured the Austrian premiere of Haydn's opera L’infedeltà delusa.

From the 1990s to Today

The 1990s saw a slight reduction in the number of theater productions, but the Stadttheater continued to attract renowned actors, entertainers, and comedians. Notable guests included Götz George, O. W. Fischer, Senta Berger, Otto Schenk, Alfons Haider, and Elfriede Ott. Regular performers included Dorothee Steinbauer and Wolfgang Dobrowsky, as well as local comedian Thomas Stipsits and his colleague Manuel Rubey.

In 1995, the theater began producing its own musicals and operettas in collaboration with the Leoben Music and Art School and the University of Music and Performing Arts Graz. Over 15 different productions were staged by 2009, earning artistic leaders Horst Zander, Hannes Moscher, and Karl-Heinz Tint the city's cultural award. Since 2010, renowned Austrian operetta ensembles have performed annually in Leoben. The Junge Bühne Leoben association was founded to continue the tradition of children's fairy tale productions.

In 2019, the city council approved over 300,000 euros for cultural initiatives, including 37,000 euros for refurbishing the theater's seating and curtains. The theater was also expanded to include the former jeweler's premises at the corner of Homanngasse and Straußgasse. Today, the Stadttheater Leoben boasts 283 seats and 105 standing places, managed by the city's cultural department under Markus Messics. The building, located at Homanngasse 5, is a protected historical monument.

Visiting the Stadttheater Leoben is not just about enjoying a performance; it's about stepping into a piece of Austrian history. Whether you're a theater enthusiast or a casual visitor, this historic venue offers a unique glimpse into the cultural heart of Leoben. So, next time you find yourself in this charming Austrian town, be sure to catch a show at the Stadttheater Leoben and experience the magic of this enduring cultural institution.