In a surprising announcement, “SOKO Donau” star Lilian Klebow will take on the role of “Maria Magdalena” in “Jesus Christ Superstar in Concert,” performing throughout Austria and in Munich during Holy Week and the Easter holidays.
Klebow described the role as “an äußerst herausfordernde Rolle,” – an extremely challenging one – and noted that it represents a return to her roots, as she completed formal musical training. The news comes as musical theater continues to see a resurgence in popularity following pandemic-era disruptions.
Also announced was “Romeo & Julia in Concert,” set to premiere November 13 and 14 at the Wiener Stadthalle, featuring Amelie, the daughter of musical star Drew Sarich, in the lead role.
The upcoming production of “Romeo & Julia” marks the musical’s return to Vienna after a 20-year absence. In 2004, Marjan Shaki and Lukas Perman starred in the titular roles, and reportedly met and fell in love during that production.
Shaki explained the decision to pass the torch to a younger generation, stating: “Es gibt Rollen, die sind zeitlos und können in jedem Alter gespielt werden. ‘Romeo & Julia’ stehen für die erste, unschuldige, hingebungsvolle Liebe.” – “There are roles that are timeless and can be played at any age. ‘Romeo & Julia’ represent the first, innocent, devoted love.” She continued, “With 45 years and 20 years my Romeo by my side, as well as four children together, we want to leave this task to young and fresh talent in order to present this unique love story authentically to the audience.”
