The story of Elisabeth – Empress of Austria and Queen of Hungary – as told by Michael Kunze (music by Sylvester Levay) in the most successful original German-language musical of all time!
One of the most powerful women in the world – “Sissy” was proud and unapproachable. She had it all, but all she wanted was to be free. Her obsession with recognition and independence drove the Empress to ruthlessness and cruelty toward her closest allies. She felt misunderstood and depressed – even suicidal…
Only one could fulfill her yearnings – death himself.
Elisabeth
Michael Kunze and Sylvester Levay created a timeless memorial for this extraordinary woman – a thrilling Drama Musical experience for generations to come.
Act I sets the stage for a review of Elisabeth’s life. Her assassin claims to have done her a favor by uniting the Empress with her ultimate lover – death. We learn about the marriage of the 15-year-old Sisi to Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph, on August 24th, 1853. Soon, the strict protocol at the Viennese Court, combined with constant criticism by her mother-in-law and the anxiety over delivering a male follower to the throne, drive Elisabeth into deep depression and suicidal thoughts. After finally giving birth to her son, she begins to fight for her independence and personal freedom. Under pressure, the Emperor concedes – against the will of his mother. Elisabeth is euphoric…
Act II finds the Austrian “Kaiserin” deeply involved in the pleasures and luxuries of her privileged existence. Against the tumultuous historical back ground of Hungary’s annexation to the Austrian empire, Sissi lives only the ‘high life’ while neglecting the needs of her people. But death has a plan…
Haunted by political intrigues, the Crown Prince takes his own life. Elisabeth is devastated and once again longs for the nearness of death. Her deepest desires find fulfillment in the events from September 10th, 1898…
Here are two video clips with the hit songs “Wenn ich tanzen will” and “Ich gehor nur mir”. Enclosed is also a link to buy the Elisabeth Musical DVD from Amazon.com.
Achim Thiemermann aka Chef Keem is a German-born chef and musician, since 1981 residing in Austin, Texas. As a pop music composer during the 1970's, Achim collaborated with Michael Kunze on a number of musical projects. He considers Michael as the most influential professional mentor of his life, as well as a dear personal friend.