Expect a night of magic and jest, of laughter and delight at the Salzburg Marionette Theater. Established in 1913, it is one of the world’s oldest continuing marionette theaters. At one point, the shows were supported by live music and real actors but today, the music is recorded. The theater produces musicals, operas and ballets for both children and adults using their beautifully crafted puppets.

Created by Professor Anton Aicher, its first production was the Mozart classic ‘Bastien and Bastienne’. The following year, they expanded to thirteen different productions. Soon they started to perform a multitude of famous productions. After a while, the theater grew more successful and adventurous and started touring, reach all the way to Moscow! The company was awarded a gold medal in France for artistic excellence.

During WWII, they were made to perform I the German occupied areas until they were forced to close down. The Theater reopened in 1944 and started performing for the occupying French, British and American military forces and in 1952, they started touring the United States. Soon International touring became a normal part of the theater’s schedule, along with performances in Salzburg itself. Until 1971, the company had performed in different theaters but finally acquired their very own theater and the troupe has not looked back since. In 2007, they performed Bastien and Bastienne again, as well as a new production of the Sound of Music.

A special exhibition showcasing their marionettes commemorated the 70th birthday of creative director GretlAicher. The company has been touring and performing in its very own theater with an catalog of productions, featuring the works of Mozart, Johann Strauss and Pyotr Tchaikovsky, to name a few.

These performances are enthralling for both adults and children alike. The productions are in German but there are English translations shows at the sides. Each production has a variety of elements apart from the marionettes. There are flowers and numerous props and their latest production has live actors sharing the stage with their puppets. Be sure to book your tickets in advance.

• The show is lighthearted and very enjoyable, your kids will love the marionettes.
• Language can be an issue, most plays are in German with English translations at the side.
• The music is mostly operatic.
• Recommendations: Book tickets in advance.
• Keep aside an entire evening for a show.

• Ticket price varies according to program.
• You can buy tickets upto 2 hours before show time.

Box office timings:

• During performance periods (Monday – Saturday): 9 am – 1 pm
• All other periods (Monday – Friday): 9 am – 1 pm
• Tickets can be purchased 2 hours prior to performance.

• Buses are available.
• Taxis are available.
• Bus 270 stop Salzburg Theatergasse bus station.
• Rent or hire a car/taxi.

• Polo Lounge
• Restaurant Wasserfall
• Hotel Stadtkrug Restaurant
• Sternbrau

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