Geschlossene Gesellschaft

Inèz, Estelle and Garcin can only guess as to why they ended up here – in a room somewhere beyond life, without windows or mirrors, and with no way of switching off the light. Surrounded by tower-high walls, their only other contact is with a bizarre valet. Outside? There is no outside. Is this the ultimate hell?


Jean-Paul Sartre’s existentialist classic NO EXIT was first performed in Paris in 1944. It is a key work to understanding Sartre’s philosophy of freedom and revolves around themes of captivity, isolation and the altered perception of time that envelops things when the present is extended to an eternity. The play contains a wealth of knowledge that resonates with us, especially as we look back on the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021.


duration and breaks: 2 hours - no break

program

Geschlossene Gesellschaft
von Jean-Paul Sartre

Place

Wiener Burgtheater – The Stage of Great Drama and Timeless Classics

The Wiener Burgtheater, often referred to as Austria’s "first stage," is one of the most prestigious and influential German-speaking theaters in Europe. Founded in 1741, it has shaped the theatrical landscape for centuries, standing for artistic excellence, literary classics, and contemporary productions.

Located on Vienna’s Ringstrasse, the Burgtheater is not only an architectural masterpiece but also a place where great playwrights such as Goethe, Schiller, Shakespeare, Arthur Schnitzler, Thomas Bernhard, and Elfriede Jelinek come to life through groundbreaking performances. With its renowned ensemble and innovative direction, the theater masterfully combines tradition with modernity, captivating thousands of theatergoers every year.

Getting There by Public Transport

Subway:

• U2 – Rathaus station (approx. 5-minute walk)

Tram:

• Lines 1, D, 71 – Rathausplatz/Burgtheater stop
• Lines 2, 46 – Dr.-Karl-Renner-Ring stop

Bus:

• Line 13A – Theater in der Josefstadt stop (approx. 10-minute walk)

Thanks to its prime location on Vienna’s Ringstrasse, the Burgtheater is easily accessible by public transport.

Burgtheater Vienna – Where Theater Comes to Life at the Highest Level

With its stunning productions, world-class ensemble, and rich history, the Burgtheater Vienna is the beating heart of Austria’s cultural scene and an absolute must for those who love the magic of theater.