From Vienna to Sydney: Iconic Projects That Defined Waagner-Biro Stage Systems

Vienna State Opera: A Foundation of Excellence (1906)

It all began in 1906 when Waagner-Biro transformed the Vienna State Opera, a pivotal moment in their history. By combining visionary design with cutting-edge engineering, the company set the stage for a legacy that would define performance venues worldwide. The Vienna State Opera was just the start. As the company grew, its influence spread far beyond Austria, shaping the landscape of global stage technology.

Every year, the Vienna State Opera undergoes a breathtaking transformation for the world-renowned Vienna Opera Ball—a glittering celebration of tradition, culture, and elegance. Waagner-Biro plays a vital role in this iconic event, engineering the seamless overnight conversion of the opera house into a grand ballroom, within just 30 hours. Discover the behind-the-scenes precision that brings this spectacular night to life here.

Pioneering Theatre Safety: Setting the Standard (1905)

In 1905, Waagner-Biro made a breakthrough that would echo through history: the first fire protection systems for theatres. In collaboration with the renowned architects Fellner & Helmer, the company created a safety standard that would become the global benchmark. This commitment to safety became a core element of the company’s identity—integrating innovative safety features into every project, from historic theatres to modern arenas.

Sydney Opera House: A Global Milestone (1972, 2017, 2019)

No project defines Waagner-Biro’s global impact like the Sydney Opera House. In 1972, the company designed and installed stage systems for one of the world’s most recognizable structures, cementing Waagner-Biro’s place on the global stage.

But the relationship didn’t stop there. In 2017, the company returned to overhaul the stage machinery in the Joan Sutherland Theatre, completing the massive upgrade in just seven months. Without extensive factory acceptance tests and smart planning, this massive project would have been impossible to finish on time, explains our colleague Georg Seliger in our interview.

Two years later, in 2019, Waagner-Biro undertook a complete renewal of the Concert Hall’s stage systems, including over 100 lifting systems and acoustic solutions that continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in stage technology.

Waagner-Biro Stage Systems’ long-standing partnership with Sydney Opera House demonstrates the company’s ability to provide lasting, adaptable solutions that meet the evolving demands of global performance spaces.

Expanding to the Seas: Aurora and Beyond (1999)

In 1999, Waagner-Biro Stage Systems embarked on an entirely new frontier—maritime stage technology. The company’s first cruise ship project, the Aurora, was the beginning of more than 40 marine installations. Waagner-Biro Stage Systems’ advanced stage technology brought the magic of live performances to sea, revolutionizing entertainment aboard cruise ships and setting new standards for onboard theatrical experiences.

C·A·T System: Revolutionizing Stage Control (1989)

Waagner-Biro Stage Systems’ C⋅A⋅T (Computer Aided Theatre) control system was revolutionary when it launched in 1989, streamlining stage operations for theatres across the world. Today, C⋅A⋅T V5 is the gold standard for precision control in major venues worldwide. The system’s seamless integration with mechanical and electrical components makes it indispensable to stage managers, directors, and operators alike .

Learn more about our next-gen stage automation system C⋅A⋅T v5

Revolutionizing Event Spaces: BMW Welt’s Stage System by Waagner-Biro (2007)

Munich’s BMW Welt, designed by Coop Himmelb(l)au, is not just a showroom; it’s a multi-purpose venue attracting over 3 million visitors annually. At its core lies an auditorium equipped by Waagner-Biro Stage Systems with cutting-edge stage technology: 33 platforms across 945 m², over 50 fly bars, and a versatile turntable. Unique features like the 30-ton lifting wall and a retractable soundproof barrier allow seamless transformations for concerts, exhibitions, and theatrical performances. The venue symbolizes adaptability and engineering finesse, reinforcing Waagner-Biro Stage Systems' innovative edge​.

National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts, China/Taiwan: Shaping Asia’s Cultural Future (2018)

The National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts in China/Taiwan stands as Asia’s largest performing arts venue, and a testament to Waagner-Biro Stage Systems’ adaptability and vision. Installed in 2018, the company created innovative automated stage systems for the center’s multiple performance spaces, setting a new standard for multi-functional venues in Asia. It’s a perfect example of how Waagner-Biro Stage Systems’ expertise is shaping the future of global performance venues.

A Legacy Defined by Iconic Projects

From the Vienna State Opera to the Sydney Opera House, Waagner-Biro Stage Systems has shaped the world of stage technology. Each project is a testament to the company’s vision, blending tradition with forward-thinking innovation. With each new venture, Waagner-Biro Stage Systems continues to elevate performance spaces, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—ensuring that future generations of theatre professionals will have the tools they need to bring their most ambitious ideas to life. The journey is far from over.

Explore Waagner-Biro Stage Systems’ latest projects and discover how they continue to redefine the world stage.

The Stage Is Yours

What are you going to do with it?

Waagner-Biro Stage Systems is the leading supplier of stage machinery and stage control globally. We’ve built many of the world’s most iconic theatres, operas, concert halls, and multipurpose venues.

Put your creativity to the max and talk to us about your ideas at office@waagner-biro-stage.com