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(Vienna time)

Vienna Theater

The Burgtheater

With all the fuss about Vienna's classical music tradition, a longstanding reputation as a haven for theatergoers often slips past unnoticed. The problem for the visitor to Vienna, of course, is that most theater productions are in German.

There are two notable exceptions, though.

Vienna's English Theatre (website) is the oldest of its kind in mainland Europe. Most productions are in English, but it also features French and Italian performances. Some of the world's greatest acting talents appeared there, including oscar-winners Judi Dench and Anthony Quinn, as well as the likes of Larry Hagman and Jean-Paul Belmondo.

The International Theatre Vienna (website) is a less formal theatre with its own group of actors. Their annual performances of Dickens' Christmas Carol are a revered Viennese tradition.

Elsewhere I've written about the Burgtheater's history and highlighted a few fascinating facts about the building. But you'll want to know a little about experiencing the place face-to-face. >> Read more

As you ponder the history of one of the world's oldest working theaters, here are a few bits of trivia to keep you amused and delighted. >> Read more

The Mount Olympus of Vienna's theater landscape is the Burgtheater (known locally as the Burg). As an institution, the Burg transcends its role as a mere stage. It's part of the Viennese consciousness and the city's history. >> Read more