Waldviertel Court Theater Thrives for 40 Years
A Rural Gem Celebrates Four Decades of Artistic Excellence
Nestled in the heart of Lower Austria’s Waldviertel region, the Waldviertel court theater in Pürbach is marking its 40th anniversary season, defying early skepticism. What began as an ambitious “insane project” has blossomed into a unique cultural hub, drawing 10,000 visitors annually to this northernmost theater in Austria.
A Visionary’s Legacy
The theater owes its existence to founder Harald Gugenberger, who poured his entire being into the venture. Describing his initial undertaking as a “completely careless” endeavor, Gugenberger, in a 2006 ORF interview, admitted he might not have proceeded had he known the challenges ahead. Yet, his dedication paid off, with the theater becoming nearly sold-out by its third year, remarkably without public funding for a significant period.
A “Partisan-Politically Neutral Zone”
Gugenberger steadfastly maintained the theater as a “partisan-politically neutral zone,” fostering an inclusive environment. This commitment, alongside consistent quality, eventually secured public funding. His enduring efforts were recognized in 2005 with the Lower Austrian Cultural Prize.
From Farmstead to Stage
Originally acquired as a private retreat, the former farmstead was transformed through the collaborative vision of Gugenberger, his wife and actress Stella Hierland, graphic artist Reinhold Hartl-Gobl, actor Wolfgang Böck, and other theatrical enthusiasts. This creative endeavor evolved into the thriving institution it is today.
A New Generation at the Helm
Though Harald Gugenberger passed away in 2015, his legacy continues through his son, Moritz Hierland. Leading the Waldviertel court theater, Hierland is overseeing the current season, which features a contemporary take on Nestroy’s classic “The Torn” with live music. He recently spoke about the theater’s enduring appeal and its diverse audience.
The Waldviertel court theater in Pürbach celebrates its 40th season! #Wald4tlerHoftheater #LowerAustria #Theater #Anniversary
— Wald4tler Hoftheater (@HoftheaterW4) April 24, 2024
Overcoming Doubts, Building Community
Reflecting on the theater’s early days, Moritz Hierland recalled the initial skepticism from some locals. “What are they actually doing there and what do they do, these artists, the insane, the crazy ones?” he said, quoting their past sentiments. He credits his father’s engaging approach for winning over the community.
The theater’s appeal extends far beyond the Waldviertel, attracting visitors from Germany and as far as Salzburg. “Some guests come from Germany and only recently I noticed a young couple who was here for the second time within a short time,” Hierland shared. The majority of the audience, however, comprises local residents, complemented by visitors from the metropolitan areas of Vienna and Linz.
A Surprising Artistic Landscape
Newcomers are often surprised by the extent of the venue, which features a main stage, a stage in the theater café, and performance spaces behind the theater. “Most expect a small stage. And then discover that in addition to our main stage we also have a third stage in the theater café and behind the theater,” Hierland explained. The entire farmstead transforms into an immersive art space.
Maintaining a professional theater in a rural setting does present challenges. “Sometimes, of course, yes. Thanks to my father and my mother, who raised this from the start, it still works,” Hierland admitted. He noted the vital role of provincial and federal funding, especially since the theater stages not only popular comedies but also challenging classics and contemporary works.
“Key moments were probably the productions that I saw as a small child. For example, when we bought a film from Jerry Cotton, who was then synchronized by three actors with live music. I thought very consciously: ‘Wow, theater, that can do something and is a great medium to tell stories.’ I am a musician myself, but when I got older, I totally fell in love with the theater again.”
—Moritz Hierland
The theater currently employs at least 15 staff members, expanding to around 25 during peak season, handling everything from hospitality to technical production. The summer months are particularly crucial, drawing the most tourists to the Waldviertel.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Hierland expressed a clear goal: “Our goal is that we continue to do qualitative, good theater and that we hopefully will remain promoted.” Without continued support, sustaining a professional theater of its size, with its 176-seat capacity, would be exceedingly difficult.
