André Heller, Ursula Strauss, and Ernst Molden Unveil “Remassuri” at Vienna’s Walfischgasse City Theater
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vienna — A new and unusual exploration of Viennese music, titled “Remassuri,” is poised to captivate audiences at the Walfischgasse city theater. This collaborative project, spearheaded by André Heller, Ursula Strauss, and Ernst Molden, promises a unique journey through the world of Viennese song. Performances are scheduled to commence on Thursday,March 13,offering a fresh perspective on classic melodies and injecting new life into Vienna’s rich musical heritage.
The Stadttheater Walfischgasse,the venue for “Remassuri.”
A “remassuri” of Viennese Sounds
What transpires when the creative energies of André Heller,Ursula Strauss,and Ernst Molden converge to contemplate the very essence of Viennese music? The answer,it appears,is “Remassuri,” a project described as a “murder gremassuri,” promising an unconventional and deeply engaging experience for theatergoers. The production is scheduled to be staged three times a week at the Stadttheater Walfischgasse, located at Walfischgasse 4 in Vienna’s first district, offering ample chance for both locals and tourists to experience this unique performance.
The very name “Remassuri” hints at the playful and perhaps even chaotic nature of the production. Audiences can anticipate a performance filled with vertebrae, chaos, pantomimes, and even appearances by the beloved Viennese puppets, Kasperl and Pezi. The musical arrangements are equally surprising, featuring unexpected interpretations of familiar tunes, ensuring that even seasoned connoisseurs of Viennese music will find something new and exciting to appreciate.
Musical Surprises and Visual Delights
Prepare for a series of musical twists and turns, including songs traditionally performed by men, such as the “fiaker song,” being sung by women, challenging customary gender roles within the musical landscape. Falco’s iconic “Rock Me Amadeus” will be presented without vocals, forcing the audience to focus on the intricate instrumental arrangement, and Molden’s “Abrakadabra” will commence with the stirring Radetzky march, creating an unexpected juxtaposition of musical styles. Adding another layer of depth and historical context, Helmut Qualtinger and André Heller will be projected onto the canvas in an archival television version of “WEAN, you are a pocket feast,” interwoven with sequences from “The Bat,” bridging the gap between past and present.
The production aims to be a vibrant tapestry of Viennese culture, seamlessly blending classic and contemporary elements. From Schubert and Johann Strauss to the Wienerlied classics of Arik Brauer and dear Augustin, “Remassuri” promises a diverse and engaging program that appeals to a wide range of musical tastes. This eclectic mix ensures that the performance remains fresh and exciting, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
A Celebration of Viennese Musical heritage
Ursula Strauss emphasizes the enduring quality of Viennese music, stating,
This is music that never dies, but always connects, creates identity and creates joy.It is fantastic to help to carry this treasure into the future.
Her words underscore the project’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Vienna’s rich musical heritage, ensuring that these timeless melodies continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.
André Heller echoes this sentiment, expressing a desire to inject joy into the world through “Remassuri.”
Somehow you have the impression that the joy in the world is abolished. We want to change that. The audience should go home delighted after the performance and take some of our joy,
Heller said. While Heller, Strauss, and Molden are the driving forces behind the concept, association, and financing of “Remassuri,” they will not be appearing on stage themselves, allowing the focus to remain firmly on the music and the performers.
An Intimate Theater Experience
André Heller envisions each of his projects as a thorough work of art, designed to captivate audiences from the moment they enter the theater. He describes “Remassuri” as
my smallest project of the past 60 years and great from the budget, because we have finally found an ideal place in the city in this intimate theater with its 271 seats to present Viennese music in the highest quality.
The Stadttheater Walfischgasse, with its intimate setting and limited seating, provides the perfect backdrop for this unique musical journey, creating a sense of connection and shared experience between the performers and the audience.
Heller also hinted at future productions, stating,
The pool of Viennese music is just so huge that we have to continue working on the program.
This suggests that “Remassuri” may be the first in a series of projects celebrating Viennese music at the Walfischgasse city theater, promising a continued exploration of Vienna’s musical landscape.
Performance details
The premiere of “Remassuri – an unusual journey into the diversity of Viennese music” is scheduled for Thursday, March 13. Starting Friday, March 14, performances will be held three times a week at the Stadttheater Walfischgasse (1st, Walfischgasse 4), typically on thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. For specific dates and ticket information, visit www.remassuri.at.
Unveiling “Remassuri”: A Viennese Musical Revolution?
Is Vienna poised for a musical renaissance, or is this just another fleeting theatrical production? Let’s delve into the world of “Remassuri,” a new Viennese musical project that’s causing quite a stir.
Interviewer (Senior Editor, world-today-news.com): Dr.Schmidt, welcome. As a leading expert in Viennese musical history and performance art,your insights on “Remassuri” are invaluable. This project,spearheaded by André Heller,Ursula Strauss,and Ernst Molden,promises a unique interpretation of Viennese song. Can you give us some past context to help understand its significance?
Dr. Schmidt (Expert on Viennese Music and Performance Art): Thank you for having me.Understanding the significance of “Remassuri” requires appreciating the rich tapestry of Viennese musical heritage. Vienna has long been a crucible of musical innovation, from the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Haydn to the operettas of Johann Strauss II and the rise of the Wienerlied (Viennese song) tradition. This project, in essence, engages with this legacy, not merely by replicating it, but by actively reinterpreting and reimagining it for a contemporary audience. It’s a bold move to deconstruct and reconstruct familiar musical structures, defying traditional genre boundaries.
Interviewer: The production is described as a “murder gremassuri,” a rather unusual term.What exactly does that mean within the context of this theatrical endeavor? What kind of audience experiance does it promise?
Dr. Schmidt: The term itself is intentionally provocative, suggesting a playful subversion of expectations. It hints at a performance that’s both chaotic and meticulously structured, a delicate balance between controlled artistic expression and delightful pandemonium. The inclusion of elements like pantomime, puppets (Kasperl and Pezi, beloved Viennese figures), and unexpected juxtapositions of musical styles—like merging the Radetzky March with Ernst Molden’s “Abrakadabra”—points to a dynamic and multi-layered experience aiming for audience engagement on multiple levels. Expect the unexpected; that’s the essence of this “murder gremassuri”.
Interviewer: The article mentions reinterpretations, including women performing traditionally male songs like the “Fiakerlied” (cab driver song). How does this gender-bending approach contribute to the overall artistic vision?
Dr.Schmidt: This aspect is crucial. The reimagining of traditional gender roles in Viennese musical performance is not just a stylistic choice; it’s a commentary on societal evolution. By dismantling established performance norms, “Remassuri” challenges ingrained perspectives on Viennese musical identity and opens up fresh avenues for artistic exploration and interpretation. this is a fantastic demonstration of the potential for artistic innovation and social commentary within performance art. It reflects modern sensibilities regarding gender representation within artistic expression, making the performance relevant to a broader audience.
Interviewer: The project features archival footage of Helmut Qualtinger and André Heller. How does this blend of historical and contemporary elements enhance the narrative?
Dr. Schmidt: The incorporation of television archives offers a powerful bridge between generations. By juxtaposing past performances with this modern reinterpretation, “Remassuri” creates a dialog across time. It demonstrates a clear understanding of the long and rich history of Viennese musical entertainment, highlighting the continuous evolution and reinterpretation of these traditions. This is particularly effective in showcasing the enduring nature of Viennese music and its relevance in our modern world. It contextualizes this project within the broader trajectory of Viennese performance traditions.
Interviewer: What are the key takeaways for someone considering attending “Remassuri”? could you offer some recommendations for maximizing their enjoyment?
dr. Schmidt: here are some key aspects to consider:
Expect the unexpected: Embrace the chaotic energy and playful subversion of tradition.
Appreciate the context: Familiarize yourself with the history of Viennese music to fully grasp the project’s thematic depth.
Engage actively: Be prepared for a multi-sensory experience that combines music, visual art, and performance art.
Embrace the diversity: Recognize that “Remassuri” integrates classical, modern, and traditional elements to create a rich, interwoven experience.
Interviewer: The article mentions the intimate setting of the Stadttheater Walfischgasse. How does the venue’s size and atmosphere contribute to the overall artistic impact?
Dr. Schmidt: The intimate atmosphere of a smaller venue like the Stadttheater Walfischgasse is essential. It fosters a closer connection between the performers and the audience, enhancing the immersive nature of the performance. this intimacy elevates the overall experience, providing a unique and personal engagement with the show’s dynamic and eclectic nature.
Interviewer: what makes “Remassuri” a significant contribution to the ongoing conversation around Viennese musical identity?
dr. Schmidt: “Remassuri” is significant because it isn’t merely a performance; it’s a statement. It challenges traditional notions of Viennese musical performance, demonstrating that musical heritage is not static but evolves thru creative reinterpretation and radical reinvention. It shows the continued vibrancy of the Viennese musical landscape and its capacity to surprise and inspire. it’s an invitation to engage with tradition in a fresh,exciting,and unexpectedly delightful way.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Schmidt, for your enlightening perspective. This has been truly insightful. Let’s continue the discussion in the comments below—share whether you think “Remassuri” could usher in a new era for Viennese musical theater. And don’t forget to share your thoughts on social media!