Vienna celebrates: Mayor Ludwig pays tribute to Peter Weck on his 95th birthday!

Vienna celebrates: Mayor Ludwig pays tribute to Peter Weck on his 95th birthday!

On September 12, 2023, theater and film legend Peter Weck was honored by Mayor Michael Ludwig on the occasion of his 95th birthday. The celebratory event took place in the renowned Plachutta restaurant on Wollzeile and honored Weck's extensive life's work as well as his significant influence on theater, film and television in German-speaking countries. Ludwig described Weck as a visionary director and promoter of talent who positioned Vienna culturally in Europe and sensitized generations of viewers to quality entertainment.

Peter Weck, born in Vienna on August 12, 1930, began his impressive career as a member of the Vienna Boys' Choir. After successfully completing the Max Reinhardt Seminar, he continued his career in the 1950s and 1960s and was seen in numerous films such as “The Girlhood of a Queen” and the “Sissi” trilogy. His popularity rose sharply when he played the lead role in the ZDF series “I Marry a Family” between 1983 and 1986 and took over the direction.

A milestone in the theater

In 1981, Weck took over the directorship of the Theater an der Wien and thereby revolutionized the Austrian theater landscape. Particularly noteworthy is the German-language premiere of the musical “Cats,” which took place on September 24, 1983. This musical ran more than 2,000 performances and attracted over 2.3 million viewers. Under Weck's leadership, Vienna became an important musical metropolis in Europe. He also staged other major productions such as “The Phantom of the Opera” and the premiere of “Elisabeth” in 1992.

Weck's versatility is also evident in his role as director and producer. After making his film debut in 1954 in “And Heaven Laughs,” he built a career that ranged from entertainment films to theater directing. In addition to his acting achievements, Weck received numerous awards, including the Golden Camera, Bambi and the Austrian Cross of Honor for Science and Art, 1st Class.

A life in transition

The loss of his wife Ingrid in 2012 led to Weck's temporary return from the public eye. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, he remains a defining figure in the cultural world. Since 2010, he has also written down his memories in the book "Was that it? Memories", in which he gives insights into his rich life and work.

Peter Weck remains an inspiration and a passionate figure in the field of performing arts who has significantly shaped culture not only in Vienna but throughout Europe. His career spans a variety of roles, from stage to film, making him a significant part of theater history and leaving a lasting impression on audiences. In its section on the theater fund, the Austrian Academy of Sciences highlights the role of personalities like Weck, who contributed to the development of theater art in Austria.

Peter Weck is a shining example of the cultural landscape and has had a lasting impact on Viennese theater history. His connection to the city and his achievements will never be forgotten.

Further information about Peter Weck and his career can be found in the Wikipedia and in the Vienna press.