Frida's Welt

©SLT - Tobias Witzgall

Frida's Welt is the newest piece by the Salzburg Landestheater’s ballet, and as the name promises, dives into Frida Kahlo's universe over two acts—or what feels like just five minutes.

Frida Kahlo, one of the most iconic and influential artists of the 20th century, stands as a symbol of female strength, rebellion, and unapologetic self-expression. She fearlessly embraced her identity, including her openness about physical challenges, unconventional relationships, and bisexuality, at a time when women were barely allowed to speak, let alone live freely.

Reginaldo Oliveira masterfully captures her life through abstract scenes filled with sensitivity, power, humor, and incredible beauty. And while the dancing is stunning, it’s the imagery he creates that carries the real emotional weight of this piece, much like Kahlo’s paintings themselves.

©SLT - Tobias Witzgall

In Oliveira’s interpretation, Frida is born from revolution, and this big opening scene sets the tone for the evening, one of many powerful ensemble performances. Throughout the two-hour ballet, the group of dancers carry Frida through her memories and moods, like echoes of her past, as if each dancer’s individual essence contributes to the complexity of her character. This collective portrayal reflects why Frida could embody such immense power and yet such vulnerability.

As for Frida herself, Valbona Bushkola carries her frida with the strength and pride known of Kahlo, while Dafne Barbosa portrays the painter’s artistic and vulnerable side making her pain palpable. together, they fill the stage with such an undescribable energy, that i found myself holding my breath everytime they were together.

©SLT - Tobias Witzgall

The stunning set design by Mathias Kronfuss follows every movement of the choreography, whether crumbling apart in a bus accident or transforming into a bed, and Judith Adam’s impeccable costumes bring the vibrant colors and silhouettes of Frida’s world to life on the Salzburg stage.

©SLT - Tobias Witzgall

The evening concludes with another powerful ensemble performance, as dancers, dressed in skirts and adorned with Frida's signature flowers, move to the words of the poem Un Canto por México: “It is the song of joy but also of sadness.” This final scene is a beautiful tribute to Frida Kahlo, her legacy, and life itself, leaving the audience with a resonating message: we all have a little Frida inside of us.

Direction and Choreography: Reginaldo Oliveira

Set Design: Matthias Kronfuss

Costumes: Judith Adam

Dramaturgy: Maren Zimmermann