On January 31, 2026, the 25th Opernredoute transformed the historic Graz Opera into a shimmering epicenter of elegance and celebration, marking a quarter-century of one of Austria’s most cherished ball traditions. Under the jubilant theme “La dolce vita” – the sweet life – around 2,500 guests descended on the Neo-Baroque opera house for a night of music, dance, glamour, and conviviality that truly lived up to its reputation as the highlight of the Styrian ball season.
OPERNREDOUTE 2026 KANIZAJ photography by Luef Light
Behind the flawless execution of the anniversary evening stood the dedicated Opernredoute team. Managing Director Art & Event Wolfgang Hülbig, Ulrich Lenz, Artistic Director of Graz Opera, Project Manager Maria Ohrenstein, and Organizer Bernd Pürcher worked in close collaboration to bring the 25th Opernredoute to life. Their combined expertise ensured a seamless balance of artistic excellence, elegant staging, and meticulous event production, resulting in a night that honored tradition while embracing contemporary flair and sustainability.
Wolfgang Hülbig, Ulrich Lenz, Maria Ohrenstein, and Bernd Pürcher OPERNREDOUTE 2026 KANIZAJ photography by Luef Light
A Night of Mediterranean Glamour
From the moment guests ascended the grand Feststiege, the grand staircase – festooned with flowers and bathed in warm light – the ambiance was intoxicating. The atmosphere struck a perfect balance between high cultural tradition and carefree joie de vivre: vibrant ball gowns, sharp tuxedos and formal wear, bubbling laughter, and the hum of conversation greeted arriving guests in the foyers. A palpable sense of anticipation filled the air, while the décor – punctuated by tens of thousands of flowers and lush green plants – brought a fresh and lively spirit to the winter evening.
Opening Spectacle and Program Highlights
The grand evening began with an opulent opening ceremony in the main ballroom. The Grazer Philharmoniker under Johannes Braun’s direction, along with the opera choir and ballet students from TanzAktiv! and the Ballett Akademie Graz, set the tone with a stirring musical introduction.
OPERNREDOUTE 2026 KANIZAJ photography by Luef Light
Then followed the elegant dance: 56 debutante pairs entered the floor to Verdi’s “Libiamo, ne’ lieti calici,” a highlight of the night that blended tradition with youthful charm.
Master of Ceremony, Stefano Bernardin KANIZAJ photography by Luef Light
Master of Ceremony, Stefano Bernardin – the charismatic actor and award-winning performer – guided guests through the evening with wit and sophistication, linking each segment of the program with Mediterranean flair. Live music, DJ sets, and performances dotted the night across the many themed rooms and lounges.
A Journey Through the Opernredoute’s Rooms
What makes the Opernredoute truly magical is the way the entire opera house becomes a labyrinth of charming worlds. The Moonlight Bar in the Galeriefoyer offered cool, ambient lighting and soft music, while the Piano Champagner Bar in the Spiegelfoyer paired classical tunes with fine bubbly. The Bar Rokoko on the side stage served cocktails with a playful twist, and the Cuba Rouge, animated by Silvio Gabriel & Band, invited impromptu dancing until late. The Kulinarische Manege on the Oper’s gläserne Brücke melded exquisite local cuisine with a stunning view over the crowd below.
Spiegelfoyer atmosphere KANIZAJ photography by Luef Light
Each space felt like a vignette in a cinematic Mediterranean tale – a homage to glamour and life’s pleasures woven throughout the night.
Flowers, Green Ambience, and Debutante Crowns
Central to the evening’s visual splendor were the floral installations. More than 10,000 blooms, crafted by Blumen Hajek draped the foyers and salons in color and fragrance, evoking a Mediterranean garden in full bloom.
L-R:Klaus and Caroline Weikhard,Eva Poleschinski,Oliver Rathschueler KANIZAJ photography by Luef Light
The debutantes’ crowns – elegant diadems designed by Eva Poleschinski and crafted by Juwelier Uhren Weikhard – added a radiant touch to the opening tableaux and reflected the celebratory spirit of the 25th anniversary.
VIPs and Distinguished Guests
The Opernredoute’s social staircase was alive with notable figures from politics, culture, and business. Landeshauptmann-Stellvertreterin Manuela Khom, ambassadors including Marko Štucin, accomplished entrepreneurs like Sabine Herlitschka, and cultural leaders mingled with local dignitaries and international personalities. Former national figures and media faces also lent their presence to the glittering guest list, underscoring the event’s significance on both regional and national stages.
Sponsors, Culinary Delights, and Sustainability
Thanks to partners like Alpine Brands, Perrier-Jouët, Red Bull, Bosco del Merlo, Perla Nera, Holding Graz, and Act 1, the evening offered a wealth of delectable drinks, gourmet experiences, and lavish lounges. The event also incorporated regional culinary excellence. From exquisite wines to carefully curated signature drinks such as the “La dolce Sprizz” – celebrating local flavors alongside international sophistication.
A particularly memorable highlight of the night was the culinary offering, which balanced refined indulgence with beloved Austrian tradition. Among the most talked-about treats was the signature Johann Lafer’s “La Dolce Vita” dessert, a delicately crafted sweet creation inspired by Mediterranean flavors and styled exclusively for the 25th anniversary perfectly suited for a glamorous ball night.
Opern Graz KANIZAJ photography by Luef Light
Importantly, the 2026 Opernredoute was again designated an official Green Event, underscoring a commitment to sustainability with regional sourcing, short delivery routes, reusable solutions, and clear environmental labeling, showing that elegance can harmonize with ecological consciousness. As the night gently wound down, guests were invited to take flowers from the lavish arrangements home , a beloved Opernredoute tradition that allows the beauty of the evening to live on, letting the excitement and magic of attending linger long after the final waltz.
A Celebration to Remember
As the orchestra played, the DJ spun, and dancers twirled well into the early morning hours, the 25th Opernredoute Graz proved itself a night where tradition met contemporary culture, where community and cosmopolitanism danced hand in hand – truly a celebration of La dolce vita.
