Vienna State Opera: The Queen of Spades - Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Set in imperial St. Petersburg, The Queen of Spades follows Hermann, a young officer consumed by an obsessive desire for wealth and social advancement. Although deeply in love with Lisa, his ambition soon eclipses his devotion, as he becomes fixated on the legend of an elderly Countess who is said to possess the secret of three winning cards.

Desperate to uncover the mystery, Hermann confronts the Countess, whose death from shock leaves him haunted by guilt. Her ghost later reveals the fateful combination, driving Hermann even deeper into obsession.

Ignoring love, reason, and compassion, Hermann risks everything at the gambling table. His dream of fortune collapses when the final card turns out to be the Queen of Spades instead of the expected ace. Realizing he has been destroyed by his own obsession, Hermann takes his own life, while Lisa's tragic fate reflects the devastating cost of his choices.

Essence
The Queen of Spades is a gripping psychological drama about obsession, greed, fate, and self-destruction. Tchaikovsky's powerful score combines passionate lyricism with haunting orchestral colors, creating one of the most compelling tragedies in the operatic repertoire.

Composer: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Premiere: 1890, St. Petersburg
Based on: The Queen of Spades
Text: Modest I. Tschaikowski & Alexander Puschkin

Vienna State Opera: A Premier Venue for Opera and Ballet in Vienna's Heart

Situated in Vienna's central Ringstrasse, the Vienna State Opera stands as a pinnacle of global opera venues and a significant cultural symbol of Austria. It boasts a tradition of top-tier opera shows featuring global stars and a distinguished ballet company.

Opened in 1869, the opera house has become emblematic of musical brilliance and artistic mastery, showcasing a wide range of performances from classic operatic pieces to modern compositions. Each year, it hosts over 300 events, including famed operas like Mozart's "The Magic Flute," Verdi's "La Traviata," and Puccini's "Tosca."

The Vienna State Opera also houses the esteemed Vienna State Ballet, which is celebrated for its performances in both classical and modern dance. The annual Vienna Opera Ball, a significant and internationally recognized social gathering, is another highlight of the cultural calendar.

Capacity: 2,284 places (of which 1,709 are seating, 567 standing, 4 wheelchair, and 4 companion seats).