Soviet Union leaders were given a demonstration by Karl Renner, revealing his actions to them.

In the heart of Vienna, on the 18th of July, 1945, a significant cultural event unfolded in the Great Hall of the Hofburg. Amidst the tumultuous backdrop of a war-torn city, this ball was a beacon of hope and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

The guest performers, flown in specially from Moscow, included Galina Sergejewna Ulanova, a renowned prima ballerina, and David Oistrach, a virtuoso violinist. Their performances added an extra layer of elegance and sophistication to the lively atmosphere of the ball.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the dance between Karl Renner, then a 75-year-old statesman, and Rosette Anday, a Hungarian singer. Their dance was a poignant reminder of the enduring power of art and culture, even in the most challenging of times.

Rosette Anday, too, performed at the ball, her voice echoing through the grand halls, adding a touch of melody to the evening. The ball was exclusive to stars from the Soviet capital, a deliberate move by the Soviet leadership to win sympathies with high culture and strengthen a non-German Austrian identity.

Interestingly, cultural events for the general population were not allowed in the Western Allies' zones at the time. This ball in Vienna was a unique exception, a shining example of cultural exchange during a period marked by division and hardship.

The ball lasted more than three weeks, providing a much-needed respite for the Viennese people. Despite the life-threatening conditions on the streets in the Soviet zone, with incidents of looting, rape, dismantling of industrial plants, undersupply of the civilian population, and high infant mortality, the ball in the Great Hall of the Hofburg offered a temporary escape from the harsh realities of post-war Vienna.

Joseph Stalin, the leader of the Soviet Union during this period, was instrumental in organising this cultural extravaganza. His aim was to use art and culture as a means to foster goodwill and solidify a sense of identity in post-war Austria.

In conclusion, the ball in Vienna's Great Hall of the Hofburg was more than just a social event. It was a symbol of hope, a testament to the power of art and culture, and a unique chapter in the history of post-war Vienna.