For Hochmair

After the successful premiere came the reward

Buhlschaft Deleila Piasko was allowed to tap the barrel while Hochmair smoked(Bild: Tschepp Markus)

The days when Jedermann Philipp Hochmair lived a life of abstinence are over. During the intensive rehearsals for this year's production, the actor strictly abstained from alcohol and parties. 

"Now I'm really looking forward to the first sip of beer," said the actor at the traditional premiere party on Saturday night in the Stiegl cellar. Before the first cooling sip could flow down his throat, however, the large premiere keg had to be tapped first.

Hochmair and Piasko(Bild: Tschepp Markus)

This year's task was for the lady-in-waiting Deleila Piasko. The Swiss woman mastered the challenge with around ten strokes and at least as much fun.

Director Robert Carsen (left) was visibly relieved when the audience gave him a standing ovation(Bild: Tschepp Markus)

Meanwhile, Hochmair held the tap as still as possible in one hand and his obligatory cigar in the other. He no longer allowed himself to lose his composure.

And rightly so, because the eagerly awaited premiere was a complete success for the ensemble around director Robert Carsen. Former Festival President Helga Rabl-Stadler also raved: "This is exactly how it should be done. The classical was brilliantly combined with the modern."

Helga Rabl-Stadler enjoyed the Jedermann premiere (Bild: Tschepp Markus)

Deputy Governor Stefan Schnöll and his wife Sigrid were also impressed. Festival President Kristina Hammer was delighted with the successful start to the Festival.