Maria Theresia: The Musical
| Maria Theresia | |
|---|---|
| The Musical | |
| Music | Dieter Falk; Paul Falk |
| Lyrics | Jonathan Zelter |
| Book | Thomas Kahry |
| Premiere | 10 October 2025: Ronacher Theater, Vienna |
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Maria Theresia: The Musical, is a German language sung-through and rapped-through biographical musical with music by Dieter Falk and Paul Falk, lyrics by Jonathan Zelter and book by Thomas Kahry.[1]
The musical covers the life of former Holy Roman Empress and Habsburg monarch Maria Theresa.
Synopsis
Prologue
The ensemble portrays Empress Maria Theresa for a modern audience, focusing on her authority as a ruler, her reforms, and her role as a mother and head of state ("Maria Theresia – Mutter der Nation").
Act 1
Set in 1736, the narrative follows the young Archduchess Maria Theresia, who resists the restrictive gender roles of her time and the expectations of her traditionally minded parents. She aspires to a more just future and is supported by her governess, Madame Fuchs ('Zwishchen Traum und Wirklichkeit').
While her father, Emperor Charles VI, and his chancellor, Bartenstein, secretly arrange a politically motivated marriage intended to curb her ambitions, Maria Theresia falls in love with Franz Stephan of Lorraine (later Francis I), whose character is portrayed as unconventional and spirited ('Denn du').
When the couple seek permission to marry, Maria Theresia is confronted by Frederick II of Prussia, who has arrived at court with the intention of marrying her under a prior agreement with her father. Maria Theresia rejects Frederick and chooses Franz Stephan, causing a public scandal at court. Frederick, humiliated by the rejection, vows revenge ('Dass ich liebe, hasse ich').
As Franz Stephan holds only the title of duke, the marriage comes at significant personal and political cost, placing strain on the couple’s relationship. Following their marriage, further pressure arises due to the absence of a male heir, as Maria Theresia gives birth only to daughters. Frederick openly mocks her situation ('Wann kommet ein Sohn').
The death of Emperor Charles VI marks a turning point. His Pragmatic Sanction enables a woman to inherit the Habsburg throne for the first time, resulting in Maria Theresia’s unexpected accession.
Largely unprepared for rule, Maria Theresia faces widespread opposition within her own territories ('Sie kann's nicht') and from other European powers that challenge the legitimacy of a female monarch. Frederick exploits the situation by invading and annexing Silesia, the Habsburg monarchy’s wealthiest province, prompting further military conflicts ('Sterben oder fliehen').
During the ensuing war, Maria Theresia gives birth to a long-awaited male heir, though the stability of the empire remains threatened. As enemy forces advance toward Vienna, she defies her advisers and pursues a bold strategy to preserve her rule and inheritance ('Starker als ihr denkt').
Act 2
Maria Theresia emerges victorious and is widely regarded as a successful and authoritative ruler, although the loss of Silesia to Frederick remains unresolved. A major political success follows when her diplomatic efforts result in Franz Stephan being crowned Holy Roman Emperor.
Confident in her authority, Maria Theresia initiates an extensive programme of reforms, placing considerable strain on Chancellor Bartenstein and the royal household. Alongside her political responsibilities, she closely supervises the upbringing and education of her many children, combining affection with strict discipline ('Working Mum').
Tensions soon develop within the imperial family. Her eldest son, Joseph, begins to challenge her decisions and develops an admiration for Frederick. At the same time, Franz Stephan feels increasingly misunderstood and withdraws into his commercial pursuits ('Was du damit tust'). Disillusioned, Joseph secretly enters into correspondence with Frederick.
In Prussia, Frederick comments critically on Maria Theresia’s strict dynastic marriage policies for her children, while also acknowledging their effectiveness in strengthening her political position ('Heiratsroulette').
Conflict within the family intensifies when her daughter Marie Christine refuses an arranged marriage and confronts Maria Theresia, alleging Franz Stephan’s infidelity.
Maria Theresia’s lasting legacy is again highlighted, emphasising the enduring impact of her reforms and leadership ('Es bleibt nichts beim Alten').
In response to personal and political pressures, Maria Theresia immerses herself further in her duties. Madame Fuchs encourages her to address the growing distance between herself and Franz Stephan ('Das, was ewig bleibt'), but an attempted reconciliation only deepens the rift ('Laxenburg').
A further crisis arises when Frederick launches another invasion of the Habsburg territories. It is revealed that Joseph has acted as an informant, leading to the outbreak of renewed war. Overwhelmed by events, Maria Theresia experiences a period of profound self-doubt ('Ist viel jemals genug').
Support from her late mother and Madame Fuchs helps her regain confidence and resolve ('Wir alle sing M.T.'). Renewed understanding allows her to reconcile with both her children and Franz Stephan ('Fur immer nur mit dir').
The conflict with Prussia continues over many years, with Maria Theresia and Frederick remaining adversaries. At a critical moment in the war, Franz Stephan dies unexpectedly, altering the balance of power in favour of Prussia.
Despite her deep grief, Maria Theresia resolves to end the ongoing conflict and secure a more stable future. In a final act of political courage, she confronts Frederick directly in an effort to bring about peace ('Im Frieden liegt die Starke'; 'Was bleibt von meinem Leben?').
Principal cast
Original 2025 Vienna cast[2]
- Maria Theresia: Nienke Latten
- Francis I: Fabio Diso
- Frederick the Great of Prussia: Moritz Mausser
- Madame Fuchs: Annemieke van Dam
- Elisabeth Christine of Brunswick-Wolfenbüttel: Annemarie Lauretta
- Charles VI / Michael Gabriel Fredersdorf: Dominik Hees
Creative
- Music, Orchestration, Arrangements: Dieter Falk
- Music: Paul Falk
- Lyrics: Jonathan Zelter
- Book: Thomas Kahry
- Creative Development: Christian Struppeck
Original 2025 production[3]
- Director: Alex Balga
- Choreography: Jonathan Huor
- Set and Video Design: Morgan Large
- Costume Design: Aleksandra Kica
- Lighting Design: Ben Cracknell
- Sound Design: Carsten Kümmel
Reception
The world premiere took place on Friday 10 October 2025 at Ronacher Theater, Vienna.
Reviews highlight its epic scope, modern blend of musical styles (pop, hip-hop, rock), impressive dance (featuring Parkour), stunning sets, and strong lead performances, particularly Nienke Latten as the Empress, though some find the lyrics less impactful than the music and visuals, praising its potential as a grand Viennese production with contemporary flair.[4][5][6]
References
- ↑ "Vienna: MARIA THERESIA - THE MUSICAL at Ronacher Theatre | The Abroad Guide". Retrieved 2025-12-13.
- ↑ "Musicals and Events - MusicalVienna". musicalvienna.at. Retrieved 2025-12-13.
- ↑ "Maria Theresia – The Musical | VBW International". Vereinigte Bühnen Wien (in Deutsch). Retrieved 2025-12-13.
- ↑ Ganeider, Martin. "Review: MARIA THERESIA at Ronacher". BroadwayWorld.com. Retrieved 2025-12-13.
- ↑ "Insight into the rehearsal of MARIA THERESIA - THE MUSICAL - News - MusicalVienna". musicalvienna.at. Retrieved 2025-12-13.
- ↑ Ganeider, Martin. "Review: MARIA THERESIA PRESS CALL at Ronacher". BroadwayWorld.com. Retrieved 2025-12-13.
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