The Tempest - Robert Wilson - Vienna Festival 2026

Robert Wilson’s tempest of light, sound and movement turns the stage into a fantastic twilight zone. A master of visual language, Wilson incorporates every movement, every shadow, every sound into one gigantic composition with a touch of absurdity. Wilson, who died in 2025, was a pioneer of experimental theatre who presented his works at the Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen) several times throughout the years. This may be the last opportunity to experience a production by the iconic theatre director. Together with 16 energetic actors of the National Theatre in Sofia, Bulgaria, Wilson turned the classic Shakespeare play about power, revenge and forgiveness into a celebration of the senses that draws the audience right into the eye of the storm.

Recommended for ages 14+

Language: Bulgarian with German and English surtitles, see PLEASE NOTE
Duration: 90 min

program

The Tempest

Der Sturm

Robert Wilson

Text von William Shakespeare

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.