Burgtheater Premiere Features Reinsperger in Title Role of Elisabeth

The premiere of the theatrical production 'Elisabeth!' at the Burgtheater captivated audiences with a powerful conclusion, marked by enthusiastic standing ovations for the lead actress and accompanying musicians. The event, which took place on Friday, showcased 100 minutes of intense performance, culminating in a celebration of the creative team, including the playwright, director, and stage crew, highlighting a strong presence of female empowerment.

Stefanie Reinsperger, in her portrayal of Empress Elisabeth, reaffirmed her status as a leading star of the Burgtheater. Her performance was characterized by a blend of powerful and sensitive acting, complemented by musicians Elena Ulrich and Lilian Kaufmann, whose spirited guitar and percussion added a dynamic rock and punk flair to the production. Director Fritzi Wartenberg appeared focused on showcasing the brilliance of the empress in her debut at the venue.

The set design by Jessica Rockstroh featured reflective, red-gold metal panels that dominated the stage, transforming later into tall revolving doors, while a shiny floor enhanced the visual spectacle. This arrangement created an atmosphere of self-reflection, allowing the audience to see distorted images of themselves against the backdrop of a golden curtain, which was lifted only once to reveal a large stuffed horse that Reinsperger would later drag onto the stage.

The narrative of 'Elisabeth!' prompts viewers to consider the relevance of this historical figure in contemporary times. The text, penned by Mareike Fallwickl, known for her previous work 'Die Wut, die bleibt,' seeks to dismantle the myths surrounding this iconic character, using the empress's story as a vehicle to address the challenges faced by women across the centuries. This feminist manifesto critiques patriarchy, asserting that it is time to fight back.

Fallwickl enriches the narrative with a series of poignant stories, spanning from 1848 to the present, that focus on women's struggles against oppression. These include the tale of Karoline von Perin, an early advocate for equality who faced severe consequences during a turbulent historical period, as well as contemporary figures like Rosa Parks and Imane Khelif, illustrating ongoing battles against inequality and violence.

Reinsperger's portrayal of Elisabeth, often depicted as the iconic 'Sisi,' challenges traditional representations. The actress begins her performance in somber black attire, dramatically recounting the assassination of the empress by an anarchist in 1898, raising questions about her legacy. The production deconstructs various myths surrounding Elisabeth's life, including her relationships and personal struggles, while simultaneously critiquing the historical narratives that have shaped her image.

Reinsperger's performance oscillates between poignant and satirical, employing a mix of humor and seriousness to engage both monarchists and republicans alike. She cleverly adopts a mock Viennese accent when delivering more vulgar lines, adding a layer of irony to her portrayal. The performance culminates in a symbolic act of liberation, as Reinsperger sheds layers of clothing, ultimately inviting audience participation in a symbolic hair-cutting ceremony, further emphasizing the theme of emancipation.

In conclusion, 'Elisabeth!' invites audiences to reconsider the complexities of this historical figure, challenging preconceived notions while celebrating the resilience of women throughout history. The production not only entertains but also provokes thought, making it a significant cultural event at the Burgtheater.