Semper Opera Ball Dresden
This February, the biggest classical event in the German-speaking world returns for its 16th edition. The Semper Opera Ball, named after Dresden’s prestigious Semper Opera House, is a massive 11-hour gala known for the peerless quality of its music and dance as well as the memorable debutantes’ waltz.
The Semper Opera House: A historic location
The Semper Opera House is an elegant Baroque-inspired building overlooking the Elbe River in the biggest city in Saxony. It casts a long musical shadow, having premiered works by numerous classical masters including Richard Wagner, Richard Strauss and Kurt Weill.
Renowned for its acoustics, the Semper Opera House is home to the prestigious Staatskapelle Dresden, which at more than 470 years is one of the oldest continually running orchestras in the world.
On the day of the ball, the semi-circular hall will become resplendent as dazzling lights illuminate the 2.500 guests and many performers.
Image credit: SemperOperaBall
Outside, a crowd typically numbering upwards of 15.000 will celebrate the event, transforming Theaterplatz into an enormous dance floor. This crowd, which often braves freezing weather, is known for being so jovial and high-spirited that in 2014 they were awarded the Dresden St. George medal for being “the best audience in the world”.
A memorable night
This year, the renowned conductor Jonathan Darlington will lead the Staatskapelle Dresden Orchestra and the Saxon State Opera Choir to provide the backbone of the musical entertainment for the evening, while numerous prominent athletes, artists, and even politicians will share the stage with performing acts from all over the world.
However, for many viewers the highlight of the event is the debutantes' waltz, which sees 100 couples bedecked in stunning ball gowns and elegant tuxedos take over the stage with a 10-minute choreographed dance. These young couples must undergo a rigorous casting process followed by weeks of training in etiquette and, of course, Viennese Waltz.
Image credit: SemperOperaBall
How to attend or watch the Semper Opera Ball
For those unable to shell out thousands of euros for a VIP table and unwilling to participate outside in the cold, the event is broadcast worldwide and can be viewed in Germany on the channel MDR Fernsehen.
More information on the Semper Opera Ball can be found on the official Semper Opera Ball website, including information on how to get to the opera house via public transportation and how you can purchase tickets.
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