Theater in der Josefstadt

The Theater in der Josefstadt – with more than 200,000 visitors and over 550 performances per season – is one of the most successful stages in the German-speaking theater world. Known as a venue for the finest artists, the theater stands for the highest quality of acting.

Its history, however, began quite modestly: in 1788 , a small stage (affectionately nicknamed "Schnupftücherl" due to its size) was built to boost business for the "Zum goldenen Strauß" inn at Josefstädter Straße 26. But by 1822 , the building, which had become too small for the growing audience, was replaced by a new structure. The new theater was inaugurated with Ludwig van Beethoven's overture "Die Weihe des Hauses" (The Consecration of the House) – conducted by the composer himself. Ferdinand Raimund and Johann Nestroy performed here, and Johann Strauss conducted.

In 1924, the next major renovation took place: This was the year that theatrical legend Max Reinhardt took over the Theater in der Josefstadt and transformed it into one of Europe's leading stages, focusing on classics, modern dramas, world premieres, and comedies, all equipped with state-of-the-art stage technology. As part of the renovation, the Josefstadt assumed the form it retains to this day – a Schönbrunn-yellow facade adorned with two angels, magnificent spaces such as the Sternfoyer and the Sträussel Halls, and the auditorium of the Logentheater in its unique red with gold details.

On April 1, 1924, the renovated theater reopened with Goldoni's "The Servant of Two Masters," directed by its owner, Max Reinhardt. Since 2006,

this architecturally and theatrically significant gem has been home to a team dedicated to contemporary theater, under the direction of Herbert Föttinger, producing world premieres, German premieres, and contemporary interpretations. Today, the Theater in der Josefstadt has 562 seats and 10 standing places. Theater in der Josefstadt