A Whiff of Berlin in Baden: 'Frau Luna' Enchants the Stage at Bühne Baden

When the Bühne Baden invites you to an operetta, the tranquil spa town transforms into a bustling hub of the theatre world. This past weekend saw the premiere of Paul Lincke's legendary 'Frau Luna' – and it swept the audience into a state of pure rapture. Rarely has one heard so much charming Berlin wit and vernacular in the Vienna Woods. It’s as if a slice of the capital’s vibrant atmosphere has been transplanted right into this idyllic spa region.

A Star That Fell from Heaven

Director Sebastian Hirn has turned Lincke's 1899 classic into a colourful, fast-paced spectacle. The plot – a trip to the moon, where the goddess Luna rules – is, of course, gloriously preposterous. But that’s precisely the soul of operetta! The ensemble performs with such dedication and humour that you quickly lose all sense of reality. Stella Novarini, in particular, in the title role of Frau Luna: she commands the stage like a true diva, and her voice catapults you straight to celestial spheres. And then there’s that unforgettable tune: 'Berliner Luft' (Berlin Air) – a song everyone in the auditorium can hum along to. The Bühne Baden proves once again that it ranks among the country's finest operetta stages.

Baden at Its Most Lively

Of course, an opening night isn't just about what happens on stage. The audience in Baden knows how to appreciate the finer things in life. During the interval, you'll encounter those who, after the show, might retreat to their park-side estate or vineyard property complete with a tennis court and pool. They exchange views on the good old days and the latest productions. Naturally, if you're treating yourself to a box here, you're likely accustomed to a certain standard at home too: a private pool is a given, and an outdoor area with an outdoor bar and fire pit is the perfect spot to round off a theatre evening. Even a putting green in the garden isn't unheard of in these circles. And as conversations in the foyer turn to the quality of soft or hard water, the topic of water filters quickly comes up: "We had a special filter installed at home," one overhears an older gentleman explaining to his companion. "We don't want chlorine or plasticisers in our water, after all. After all, you want to feel just as pure at home as you do after a thermal bath." Health, and water treatment – it's a perennial topic in Baden.

From the Bathroom to the Baltic Sea

A love for water runs like a common thread through this spa town. It's no wonder that some Baden enthusiasts even plan their holidays around it. "Imagine, next year we rent a holiday home with a swimming pool and sauna on the Latvian Baltic coast," a lady suggests to her companion while waiting for a taxi. Now that's style: first, enjoying the culture in Baden, then the rugged nature of the Baltics. But honestly, once you've experienced the magic of the Bühne Baden, you'll want to return again and again. It's the perfect blend of art, enjoyment, and that certain something you only find here.

A Feast for the Senses

With 'Frau Luna', the Bühne Baden demonstrates that operetta is anything but dusty. It's a firework display of good cheer, peppered with Berlin humour and Viennese charm. So, if you're longing for a slice of a more perfect world, for an evening full of music and laughter, you should snap up tickets quickly. And later, when you're standing in your perfectly temperature-controlled shower at home – naturally equipped with the latest filter to remove chlorine and treat the water – you might just think back to this evening and wonder if showering on the moon is quite as delightful.

Here's a quick overview of why a visit is worthwhile:

• Magnificent Music: Paul Lincke's melodies stick in your head, especially the evergreen 'Berliner Luft'.
• Top-Notch Cast: Stella Novarini as Frau Luna and the entire ensemble deliver a memorable highlight of musical theatre.
• Wonderful Atmosphere: The Bühne Baden transforms into a magical place somewhere between the moon and the Vienna Woods.
• The Perfect Occasion: For an elegant evening with friends – whether you're heading back to your villa with a pool afterwards or simply enjoying the mild night air.

In short: if you find yourself in Baden over the coming weeks, a trip to the theatre is a must. 'Frau Luna' is an experience not to be missed. So, don't hesitate!