Salzburg Marionette Theater: The Sound of Music
Description
The Salzburg Marionette Theater has charmed countless children and adults for a century, and has become famous throughout the world. Since 2016 it is has been included in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The performance technique of the Salzburg Marionette Theater has been declared a cultural asset worthy of preservation, as the "most highly developed form of puppet and figure theatre." In this unique baroque auditorium, they present operas, including Mozart's Magic Flute, as well as, the Salzburg classic The Sound of Music, Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker ballet, and Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream or Saint-Exupéry's The Little Prince. Children for sure will like Peter and the Wolf or Rumpelstiltskin. This is for one admission ticket to see the show of choice, that is available. Transportation and other accommodations not included.
Tour Options
Itinerary
In this unique, baroque, audience hall with 350 seats, there have been operas, musicals, plays, and fairy tales performed here such as the one showcased here: The Sound of Music - "A delightful surprise from start to finish" - The New York Times. Performed in English, and subtitled in various languages. The duration is 1 hour and 45 minutes. The Salzburg Marionette Theatre employs 12 puppeteers trained in a wide variety of trades and professions. Qualities common to all of them are musicality, manual skill, and the ability to empathize with the various characters in order to bring the marionettes alive on stage. The Salzburg Marionette Theatre has evolved its own technique, which is used as a model by many marionette theaters worldwide. The puppeteers’ training, which takes place exclusively in the theater itself, demands just as much time and perseverance as learning to play a musical instrument. Shows are subject to seasonality and won't all be available at one time. Be sure to check back to see what new shows will be playing next.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Infant seats are available on request, dress code is smart casual
- No short trousers in the evening
Reviews(40)
This was so worth doing when in Salzburg! The show was staged so inventively and the music sounded beautiful. The show is cut down to an hour 45 with an interval and doesn’t feel too long or too short. The production is beautifully done and so charming and unique. Definitely a memorable moment of our interrailing trip. Pretty expensive though. There’s also a display of older puppets when you walk in which is interesting to see! Theatre itself is beautiful.
Especially in today’s produced world, and despite seeing the movie many times, this show was very refreshing and captivating. Just know the bar/drink area is cash only, so if you want a refreshment before or during intermission, bring cash. It was very hot during our visit to Salzburg and the ac was struggling to keep up. So if you book this for a break from the heat, you might be disappointed. The performance and experience are well worth the time, though!
This was really good fun for anyone who likes the Sound of Music, or who just likes theatre in general. The puppet theatre itself was beautiful and the performances from everyone, voiceovers and the puppeteers were amazing. Lovely curtain call twist at the end which I won't spoil for anyone who hasn't seen the show. Shout out to the very friendly bar staff as well!
Absolutely loved this it’s so cute and very clever. A must see if you’re a sound of music fan.
I'm at a loss for words how good this was. I am a musical enjoyer, so I might like this more than those who aren't into musicals, but the performances of the puppeteers, the music and direction of this cut-down version of the story paired with the wonderful highly detailed puppets truly brought this to life. The show is worth every penny, however the only downside I have to mention is that the room is not very tilted, so if you have a tall person in front of you it can be quite difficult to see - therefore being close to the stage is a must.
We were so fortunate that our guide on the Sound of Music bus tour recommended the Marionette Theater. It was an amazing experience and the show was so well done! Can't recommend this experience highly enough!
This was a fantastic experience. A fun way to spend a few hours in a historical setting. Be aware of seating assignments. If sitting behind a tall individual you will need to move around to see the stage.
If you are a Sound of Music fan, definitely worth seeing this version of it, and its not just for the kids, it's for any age!
A delightful evening in Salzburg. The Sound of Music marionette show is a piece of unique art. Something like 10 puppeteers at the same time. So good.
This was everything I hoped it was and more. The puppeteers are so talented. I count this as one of the most interesting things I’ve ever done. Definitely the highlight of my 2025 European tour.
