The Life Ball is celebrating its 25-year anniversary on June 2 with an homage to the classic film “The Sound of Music” and an exhilarating party with the theme of solidarity, tolerance and education. This year’s AIDS charity event will once again be graced by numerous celebrities such as the actress Charlize Theron and the singer Shirley Bassey. A benefit concert with special appearances by opera stars will be held in the Burgtheater beforehand.

The Life Ball is one of the biggest AIDS charity events in the world. The party on June 2 in and in front of Vienna City Hall promises to be flashy, colorful and loud, in order to generate donations for AIDS relief projects and to promote public awareness of HIV and AIDS. This year the Life Ball is dedicated to the international hit musical “The Sound of Music” (1965). The melodies from the film and the moving story of the von Trapp family from Austria are famous around the world.

Key scenes from “The Sound of Music” will be interpreted at the glamorous opening show on Rathausplatz with numerous performances by international stars, showing Austria between tradition and innovation, local heritage and globalism. Conchita Wurst plays the role of Miss Maria, who was portrayed by Julie Andrews in an unforgettable performance in the film. Actress Charlize Theron, the exceptional artiste Shirley Bassey and Paris Jackson, daughter of Michael Jackson, have already confirmed their attendance. The show on City Hall Square is open to the public; details will be announced.

The Life+ Celebration Concert for the benefit of HIV/AIDS relief projects will be held at Burgtheater on the evening before the Life Ball. International opera stars such as Jonas Kaufmann, Andreas Schager, Elena Maximova, Hila Fahima and Kristin Lewis will raise their voices against AIDS at the Life+ Celebration Concert. The virtuoso violinist Lidia Baich will perform solos. Literary treats between the musical offerings are promised by theatrical greats such as Sunnyi Melles and Markus Meyer. 80 years after Austria was annexed to Germany, the singer Ute Lemper performs Yiddish songs from the ghetto to commemorate this sad moment in history.

25th Life Ball - June 2, 2018
Red Carpet from 19:30, food from 18:00
Opening show on City Hall Square at 22.00
www.lifeball.org
Tickets: www.wien-ticket.at