Broadway Comes to Langenlois A Joyful “Hello, Dolly!”

Operette and Musical Langenlois [ENA] After thirty years of operetta productions, Operette & Musical Langenlois has finally chosen to stage a musical, namely Jerry Herman’s Hello, Dolly!, and judging by the performance at Schloss Haindorf, the festival’s leap from operetta to musical theatre has been a success. Performed outdoors in the picturesque grounds of Schloss Haindorf, the production brings a touch of Broadway glamour to the Kamptal. The setting is particularly effective after sunset, when the atmosphere of the historic castle combines beautifully with the colourful energy of the show.

At the centre of the story is Dolly Gallagher Levi, a determined and witty matchmaker who decides to arrange not only the romantic lives of others but also her own future. Cornelia Horak gives Dolly warmth, confidence and comic energy. She is matched perfectly by Christoph Wagner-Trenkwitz as the grumpy but good-hearted businessman Horace Vandergelder. The leading team is equally impressive. Florian Hurler’s direction and choreography keep the production moving at a lively pace, while Lorenz C. Aichner leads the music with considerable energy. Herman’s score provides exactly what a summer musical should: memorable melodies, exuberant dance numbers and plenty of opportunities for the performers to charm the audience, young and old alike.

There is also an interesting local connection between the location of the production and the setting of the musical. Although the story is set in New York around the turn of the twentieth century, Hello, Dolly! ultimately traces its origins back to Johann Nestroy’s Austrian comedy Einen Jux will er sich machen. The American Broadway classic therefore has surprisingly Viennese roots!

What makes this production so enjoyable is its sense of fun and genuine excitement. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, but it is performed with great musical and theatrical skill. Langenlois has not just added a musical to its programme; it has opened a new chapter of theatrical experiences — and Hello, Dolly! is a great way to begin it. For anyone who doesn’t want to go to Broadway but would rather have Broadway come to them, Hello, Dolly! in Langenlois is a must-see.