JOHANN STRAUSS – THE KING OF WALTZ: A SPECTACULAR GALA EVENING IN LJUBLJANA
On 27 February 2027, the timeless music of Johann Strauss comes to Arena Stožice in Ljubljana in a magnificent gala production featuring the 50-piece Johann Strauss Orchestra of Vienna, acclaimed Austrian conductor Alfred Eschwé, outstanding vocal soloists, and elegant dancers.
A celebration of exceptional musicianship, refined elegance, and some of the most beloved melodies ever written, JOHANN STRAUSS – THE KING OF WALTZ promises an unforgettable evening inspired by the grandeur of Vienna.
This extraordinary production pays tribute to the enduring legacy of Johann Strauss II, the composer whose waltzes, polkas, and marches forever changed the world of music. For one magical night, the splendour of Vienna will come to Slovenia through an immersive live performance that combines orchestral brilliance, vocal artistry, dance, and breathtaking stage production.
More than a traditional classical concert, this gala is a spectacular live experience where music, elegance, movement, and the unmistakable spirit of Vienna come together. It is designed not only for lovers of classical music, but for anyone who wishes to experience the world's most iconic melodies in a grand contemporary production.
THE WORLD'S FIRST POP SUPERSTAR
Johann Strauss II is often described as the world's first pop superstar. As early as the 19th century, he captivated thousands of concertgoers and transformed his performances into celebrated social and cultural events.
His waltzes, polkas, and marches became an international phenomenon, reaching audiences far beyond Austria and Europe with their irresistible melodies, vibrant rhythms, and unmistakable elegance. Long before the birth of the modern entertainment industry, Strauss had already redefined the concert experience as a spectacular public event.
Nearly two centuries later, the music of the Strauss dynasty continues to fill the world's most prestigious concert halls, from Vienna to New York, retaining all of its freshness, sophistication, and universal appeal.
CELEBRATING THE GREAT STRAUSS ANNIVERSARIES
The Ljubljana gala takes place during a particularly meaningful period for the musical legacy of the Strauss family.
Following the worldwide celebrations marking the 200th anniversary of Johann Strauss II's birth in 2025, the year 2027 will commemorate the 200th anniversary of Josef Strauss, another prominent member of Vienna's legendary musical dynasty.
The year will also mark the 160th anniversary of the premiere of The Blue Danube (An der schönen blauen Donau), one of the most famous compositions ever written and the ultimate musical symbol of Vienna. First performed in 1867, the waltz has long transcended the world of classical music to become an enduring part of global cultural heritage.
The Ljubljana concert is therefore far more than a gala evening. It is a tribute to one of history's greatest musical families and a celebration connecting the bicentenaries of Johann Strauss II and Josef Strauss with the 160th anniversary of the immortal Blue Danube.
A PROGRAMME OF TIMELESS MASTERPIECES
The gala programme features many of Johann Strauss's most celebrated works.
Audiences will enjoy The Blue Danube, widely regarded as the world's most famous waltz, the sparkling Tritsch-Tratsch Polka, the majestic Emperor Waltz, the lyrical Roses from the South, and a specially created medley of Strauss's finest Viennese melodies, prepared exclusively for this spectacular production.
The programme also includes the legendary Radetzky March, complete with its traditional audience participation, one of the most joyful, iconic, and eagerly anticipated moments of every great Viennese gala concert.
Masterpieces such as The Blue Danube and the Radetzky March continue to captivate audiences across the globe, inspiring standing ovations and creating an unforgettable connection between performers and listeners.
CONDUCTED BY ALFRED ESCHWÉ
The orchestra will be led by distinguished Austrian conductor Alfred Eschwé, internationally recognised as one of today's foremost interpreters of the Viennese musical tradition.
Renowned for his elegant interpretations, stylistic precision, and authentic understanding of the Viennese repertoire, Eschwé brings sophistication, brilliance, and a natural sense of style to every performance.
Under his baton, audiences can expect a performance that seamlessly combines artistic excellence with the lightness, vitality, and unmistakable charm of authentic Viennese music.
A 50-PIECE ORCHESTRA, VOCAL SOLOISTS, AND DANCERS
The spectacular production at Arena Stožice brings together a magnificent 50-piece orchestra, exceptional vocal soloists, and elegant dancers to recreate the glamour and refinement of Vienna's golden age.
Music and dance intertwine in a captivating stage production, transporting audiences into the world of grand Viennese ballrooms, magnificent gala evenings, and timeless melodies that have enchanted generations for nearly two centuries.
AN EXCLUSIVE GALA EXPERIENCE FOR ALL GENERATIONS
JOHANN STRAUSS – THE KING OF WALTZ is an exclusive celebration of classical music presented through a magnificent contemporary production.
Far more than a concert for classical music enthusiasts, it is a spectacular event for audiences of all generations, welcoming everyone who appreciates exceptional music, elegance, dance, unforgettable melodies, and extraordinary live performances.
With its 50-piece orchestra, outstanding vocal soloists, elegant dancers, world-famous compositions, and the artistry of Alfred Eschwé, JOHANN STRAUSS – THE KING OF WALTZ will transform Arena Stožice into the heart of Vienna for one unforgettable evening.
An exclusive gala where timeless tradition meets spectacular contemporary production. An evening of elegance, emotion, and music that has captivated audiences around the world for generations.
Experience the magic of Vienna. Experience Johann Strauss. ✨
