The Empress on Stage

On the very stage where pop superstar Falco recently thrilled audiences in “Rock Me Amadeus – The Falco Musical” with a near sold-out run, a new Austrian legend is set to rise. Beginning in October 2025, “Maria Theresia – The Musical” will celebrate its world premiere at the Ronacher. This epic production tells the captivating story and legacy of one of the most influential empresses of the 18th century – a living portrait of authority, emotion, and political change.

Maria Theresia’s extraordinary life – now on stage.

“With Maria Theresia, we dare to explore a new perspective on one of the most fascinating women in European history,” says Christian Struppeck, Artistic Director of Vereinigte Bühnen Wien (VBW). “She was a visionary – brave, intelligent, and fearless in a time when power was almost exclusively reserved for men. The show doesn’t just depict historical events. It’s also about family, responsibility, internal struggle, and the courage to forge new paths against all odds – themes that resonate more than ever today.” This opulent musical blends grand drama with a contemporary sound, pulsating beats, and emotionally stirring lyrics. Maria Theresia, a political icon and reformer whose influence continues to shape Europe today, introduced groundbreaking changes such as compulsory education – reforms that reached far beyond Austria and left a lasting mark on history. The story of a remarkable woman, mother of 16 children, and ruler of a vast empire who redefined the rules and changed the world.
Star-studded cast and world-class creative team.

VBW promises a world premiere with an exceptional cast, featuring numerous audience favorites: Following her acclaimed performance as “Ich” in REBECCA at the Raimund Theater, Nienke Latten returns to take on the title role of Maria Theresia. Starring alongside her is Fabio Diso as Franz Stephan of Lorraine, known from productions like I AM FROM AUSTRIA. The role of her rival, Frederick II of Prussia, will be played by Moritz Mausser, celebrated for his portrayal of Falco. Maria Theresia’s governess, Madame Fuchs, will be portrayed by none other than ELISABETH star Annemieke van Dam. The Empress’s parents, Elisabeth Christine and Emperor Karl VI, will be brought to life by Annemarie Lauretta (Miss Saigon) and CATS star Dominik Hees. Additional roles include Andreas Wolfram (Chancellor Bartenstein), Aeneas Hollweg (Joseph), and Amelie Polak (Marie Christine). A dream cast for any musical enthusiast! For this brand-new in-house production, Vereinigte Bühnen Wien has once again assembled a top-tier, international creative and leadership team. Music and arrangements are composed by the legendary Dieter Falk, multiple ECHO Award-winner and producer of over 50 gold and platinum records, in collaboration with his sonPaul Falk, also a successful composer and producer. Lyrics are by Jonathan Zelter, a chart-topping songwriter with multiple gold and platinum certifications. The book is written by Austrian author Thomas Kahry, with creative development led by Christian Struppeck. The stunning stage design is created by acclaimed West End designer Morgan Large, who also oversees video design. Costumes are by celebrated artist Aleksandra Kica, known for her work with the Vienna Volksoper, Theater in der Josefstadt, and Salzburg State Theatre. Lighting is by London’s renowned Ben Cracknell, and sound is by Carsten Kümmel, experienced in major productions including the Eurovision Song Contest. A production worthy of a historic icon – modern, moving, and magnificently staged. An absolute must-see for every musical lover.