Austrian theater The Burgtheater presents a renowned solo performance of Reinperger titled "Elisabeth!"

In a captivating turn of events, the Burgtheater has added Mareike Fallwickl's debut evening-length piece, "Elisabeth!", to its program. This multilayered and feminist play offers a fresh perspective on Empress Elisabeth of Austria, a figure who has been glorified, trivialised, and demonised since her death 127 years ago.

The play, written specifically for Stefanie Reinsperger, presents a gritty-punk live sound, courtesy of Elena Ulrich and Lilian Kaufmann. Reinsperger transforms into Franz Joseph in the play, offering a unique twist on the traditional narrative.

Reinsperger's performance in "Elisabeth!" is nothing short of powerful. She portrays the dark Sisi, commenting on the action in coarse Lower Austrian dialect, looking directly at the audience. The intimate setting of the front stage, dressed with gold-shimmering mirrors by Jessica Rockstroh, adds to the raw intensity of the play.

One of the most striking elements of the performance is Reinsperger's character's costume: a black dress with a monster train. During the course of the play, she discards her dress, hair, and other clothing on stage, creating a powerful visual metaphor for the shedding of societal expectations and constraints.

"Elisabeth!" is not just a critique of the glorification, trivialisation, and demonisation of Sisi. It is also a critique of outdated self-images and a mirror of contemporary attitudes towards women. The play addresses the ongoing glorification of Sisi in modern society, offering a much-needed reflection on the role of women in history and society.

The performance on Friday received minutes of intense applause with standing ovations from the audience. "Elisabeth!" is currently being staged at the Salzburg Landestheater and in Hannover, providing audiences across Austria and Germany with the opportunity to witness this thought-provoking and powerful play.

Mareike Fallwickl, the author of "Elisabeth!", is known for her novel "Die Wut, die bleibt," published by Rowohlt. This novel addresses themes like social injustice, patriarchal structures, exploitation, and violence while also highlighting solidarity, friendship, and family relationships. Her work in "Elisabeth!" continues to challenge and provoke, offering a fresh and necessary perspective on a historical figure who continues to captivate and intrigue.