Wiener Städtische Musical-Workshop
Immerse yourself in the global hit musical CATS
The long-standing partnership between Vereinigte Bühnen Wien and Wiener Städtische Versicherung is all about cultural education and youth development. The shared goal is to make art and culture more accessible to children and young people, spark lasting interest, and provide a space for them to discover and express their creativity and talent.
After a break due to the coronavirus pandemic, Wiener Städtische Versicherung invited 200 schoolchildren from all over Austria to a Vereinigte Bühnen Wien theatre for the ninth time this year. This time, the young people had the opportunity to experience Andrew Lloyd Webber's global hit musical CATS up close at the RONACHER.
In addition, 80 pupils were given the opportunity to get a taste of theatre as part of an exclusive musical workshop. Together with Margarete Reichel-Neuwirth, cultural mediator for the VBW musical division, and dance teacher Domenika Arnetzeder, an extensive musical workshop was offered, ranging from theatre education games and improvisation exercises to empathising with the CATS characters and jointly developing a choreography for a number from the musical. A very special highlight for the children and young people was the opportunity to see the costumes from the play up close.
Christian Struppeck, Musical Director of Vereinigte Bühnen Wien: "Vereinigte Bühnen Wien has long been committed to inspiring children and young people to take an interest in art, culture – and musical theatre in particular. Thanks to our long-standing cooperation with Wiener Städtische Versicherung and our cultural outreach programme, schoolchildren have the opportunity to take a look behind the scenes and give free rein to their own creativity and expression. We hope that the workshops will spark their interest in theatre and musicals and that children and young people will develop a lasting love of musicals."
Franz Patay, Managing Director of Vereinigte Bühnen Wien: "Culture is a mirror of our society. The idea behind the project is to communicate culture, break down barriers and bring theatre to life. We are delighted that we have been able to implement the project again in cooperation with Wiener Städtische Versicherung. This has enabled 200 schoolchildren from all over Austria to attend a musical in one of our theatres, allowing them to experience theatre up close. The aim is to spark a long-term interest in art and culture."
Doris Wendler, Executive Director of Wiener Städtische Versicherung: "As the largest apprentice trainer in the insurance industry, promoting young talent is particularly important to us. Children and young people need a comprehensive education in order to develop well and reach their full potential. Cultural education is an essential part of this, and the musical workshop offered by Vereinigte Bühnen Wien is a perfect opportunity to get a taste of theatre and immerse oneself in this fascinating world. Wiener Städtische is delighted to support this initiative again this year!"
