Two Stages, One Generational Shift

Two institutions, two stories – yet a shared path: Both the Thalia Theatre in Hamburg and the Vienna State Opera are facing important decisions that will shape their artistic and technical future. While a new artistic director has taken office in Hamburg and extensive modernisation work has begun, the Vienna State Opera is relying on its long-standing partnership with Waagner Biro Stage Systems, which continues to inspire confidence in technical excellence to this day.

What connects the two? The desire to preserve tradition – while at the same time boldly embracing the future of stage technology.

Thalia Theatre Hamburg – New management, new technology, new possibilities

The 2025/2026 season marks the beginning of a new era for the Thalia Theater Hamburg. Building on a strong artistic signature and established structures, a new artistic director is bringing fresh perspectives and new impetus to the further development of the theatre. As one of the most important stages in the German-speaking world, the theatre is known for its artistic openness and contemporary outlook. This attitude will be further reinforced by a multi-year modernisation project, which Waagner Biro Stage Systems will accompany step by step during the theatre's breaks between seasons.

Renewal of the Control System with C·A·T V5

A modern control system creates maximum flexibility – especially during rehearsals, when technology must give space to creativity.

Future upgrading of the revolving stage

Smooth and quiet for poetic moments. Powerful and dynamic for dramatic scene changes. The revolving stage will be further developed in the future and strengthened as the pulsating heart of the productions.

Planned installation of new double-deck platforms with travel range guides and follow-up platforms

More creative freedom, more complex scene changes and even more precise movements: the technical infrastructure will be expanded in the future and will grow with the ideas of the artists. Together, we will ensure that the Thalia Theatre continues to set standards not only artistically but also technically – a stage that remains as versatile as the productions it hosts. This creates a conscious transition between proven artistic quality and new creative freedom – a generational change based on continuity.

Vienna State Opera – Trust that has grown over Generations

While a new chapter is beginning in Hamburg, a piece of shared history continues to be written in Vienna. The relationship between the Vienna State Opera and Waagner Biro Stage Systems has grown over generations. For more than a century, we have supported the opera house with technical expertise and the ambition to turn artistic visions into reliable reality – guided by precision craftsmanship, engineering excellence and a deep understanding of the interplay between art and technology.

A bond that continues to this day!

What once began with hand-operated rope systems has evolved into a highly complex, digitally controlled stage environment. Yet one thing has remained unchanged over the decades: trust. Our maintenance contracts are more than technical services – they represent a living partnership that ensures the safe and reliable operation of one of the world’s most important opera houses. Behind every performance are control systems that guarantee precision, reliability and perfection – values that matter in every theatre, but are of particular importance here.

Modernisation with respect – the C·A·T V5 upgrade

The latest upgrade to C·A·T V5 marks another technological milestone. More precise movements, enhanced safety and state-of-the-art control technology – seamlessly integrated into a building whose historical character remains untouched. Here, technical renewal always means striking a careful balance between innovation and tradition.

Trust across generations – and a mission for the future

Only those who deliver consistent quality over decades can build such a partnership. The Vienna State Opera stands for world-class performances on stage – and behind the scenes, we ensure that this world-class standard remains technically possible.

Two Cities. Two Houses. One Aspiration: Stage Technology at the highest level – Today, tomorrow and for generations to come.