In the arcaded courtyard of the Renaissance castle Kobersdorf in Central Burgenland, theatrical performances have been taking place since 1972. Professional acting, excellent audience numbers, and a recognized reputation far beyond the borders of the country have secured this stage an established position in the summer theater program. Artistic director Wolfgang Böck has been responsible for the artistic direction since October 2003 and can also be seen on stage as an actor.
Noises Off
by Michael Frayn
The Kobersdorf Castle Games will delightfully take a peek behind the scenes in summer 2026, where "Noises Off" is taking place: A comedy troupe is rehearsing their play – and already the final rehearsal before the premiere foreshadows disaster! Some are struggling with props, others with their lines. Doors are sticking, and entrances are missed. Desperately, the director tries to bring his production to completion. But the real dramas unfold backstage. Because during the ongoing performance, alongside the usual timing issues, various relationship problems within the ensemble, a fatal whiskey bottle, and unexpected guests arise. Ultimately, the focus returns to the stage action. By the end of the tour in the provinces, not much remains of the original arrangements. And with admirable improvisational talent, everyone involved manages to navigate into the redemptive chaos.
When British author Michael Frayn observed the events of one of his early farces from the side stage, he remarked, "It was funnier from behind than from the front, and I thought that one day I must write a farce from behind." The idea for "Noises Off" was born! Since its London premiere in 1982, this outrageous play has become one of the most successful comedies worldwide. Now, under the direction of Claus Tröger, it is finally to be experienced at the Kobersdorf Castle Games – and naturally, director Wolfgang Böck will also dive into the unfathomable chaos.
Performance period: June 30, 2026 (Premiere) July 2, 2026 to July 26, 2026 (Thurs-Sun)
Start of performance: 8:30 PM
Performance location: 7332 Schloss Kobersdorf, Prof. Martha Bolldorf-Platz 1 (Schlossgasse)
Ticket prices: 32 € to 58 €, children, youth, and student tickets: 50% discount
Ticket service and information:
KBB – Kultur-Betriebe Burgenland GmbH
c/o Büro der Schloss-Spiele Kobersdorf, Franz Schubert-Platz 6, 7000 Eisenstadt
Phone: +43 (0)2682/719-8000 | E-Mail: schloss-spiele@kobersdorf.at | www.schlossspiele.com
Motorized companion events: Since his directorship in Kobersdorf, Wolfgang Böck personally leads a vintage car and a biker tour to attend a performance. The popularity among theater-loving fans has led to a cherished tradition, which has become a highlight of the summer motor season for many.
Biker tour: Saturday, July 11, 2026 and Vintage car tour: Sunday, July 19, 2026.
Kobersdorf in Central Burgenland is about an hour's drive from Vienna. On selected days, ELITE TOURS Travel Agency GmbH offers comfortable bus trips from Vienna to the performance in Kobersdorf and back: Tel. +43 (0)1/513 22 25. Even in questionable weather, the Castle Games strive to hold outdoor performances. Therefore, guests are advised to prefer warm and waterproof clothing and to forego umbrellas due to visibility issues.