Marionette Theater in Schönbrunn Palace

This is a marionette theater located in the left wing of the Schönbrunn Palace. Performances take place late in the evenings, from 8 pm until 10 pm (blankets are included in your tickets!). One of two operas is offered daily, year around: "Magic Flute" by Mozart or " Hansel and Gretel" by Humperdinck. The marionettes, costumes, stage sets, and stage technology are crafted in the UNESCO protected Marionette Theatre, following the 200+ years old marionette theatre tradition in Vienna.

If you want a unique and unforgettable classical music experience in Vienna, consider attending an opera performed by marionettes in the Schonbrunn Palace. Since the performance is in English, you might want to look for the English rendition of the plot before heading for the show. In the left wing of the palace, tucked away from the tourists,this small but cozy outdoor theater resides. In case of rain you will be offered an umbrella, and a blanket will be precariously handed to you during the intermission.

You will be welcomed to the world of the marionettes by the production director Christine .Before the play begins, grab a cup of hot chocolate and a traditional Austrian pastry. From a short introductory video you will learn how the humans moved their marionettes, and how an entire show was produced.

As it turns out, in average, it takes puppeteers six months to master basic “puppet” steps, such as walking, sitting down and standing up. Up to three years - to gather a full control over the puppets.

 The show is performed for just 30-60 spectators which makes it almost a family experience. Artistic play, modern stage technology and a princely atmosphere will turn your evening into a special experience. You will feel appreciate that, back in the day, the Empress Maria Theresia happened to be fascinated by operas for marionettes composed by Joseph Haydn. Thanks to her, this tradition has lasted for over 230 years. The marionettes themselves are made from Swiss pine and lime wood and wrapped in silk and lace. Their artistic features and sleek bodies imitated theatre actors. Compared to humans, the marionettes are pretty small, just reaching up above puppeteer's knees. However, once the marionettes own the stage, and the humans turn invisible high above, they seem to grow bigger. After the show ends, Christine invites everyone to look backstage. Between rows of marionettes from different shows the visitors learn how the puppeteers move their marionettes.

I promise, on the way home you will be humming arias you, probably, knew since you were little.