My first time ... at the Rigiblick Theatre

The stunning views alone make a visit to the Rigiblick Theatre well worth it. The theatre is housed in a former spa hotel, just above the Rigiblick mountain station. You reach it by funicular, which is how the theatre got its slogan: ‘The only theatre in Zurich with its own funicular connection’. Otherwise, the Rigiblick Theatre is known for its musicals, some of which remain in the repertoire for months on end. This evening’s “Tribute to Prince” is no exception; it forms part of the “Tribute to...” series and was produced by the Stern Theatre. It is performed by two actors, with vocal interludes by three singers, accompanied by a large band of seven musicians.

When I enter the theatre half an hour before the start, the foyer is already quite full and all the tables are taken. The bar opens an hour before the performance begins and serves drinks and snacks. I collect my tickets and a drink at the bar and step outside briefly to enjoy the view. Admission finally begins 20 minutes before the start, at which point seats are also allocated. The auditorium slowly fills up; apart from a few seats, all are taken.

Luisa Wolf takes to the stage and the evening begins. It is a show featuring live music, funny sketches and plenty of applause from the audience. A tribute to Prince, who left us far too soon and left behind a vast music archive, which is kept at Paisley Park. This building, where Prince also lived and which he used as a studio, is the setting for the evening. Together with the two actors, we travel back in time and through Prince’s history, accompanied by his best and, in some cases, lesser-known songs.

After 55 minutes, there is an interval and a long queue forms in front of the bar. Out on the terrace, lively discussions are taking place; everyone seems to still be completely immersed in Prince’s story. The evening only ends after just under two hours, to thunderous applause from the audience. Tired but satisfied, I set off for home and, naturally, listen to my favourite Prince songs on the way back.

I can highly recommend this evening to anyone who enjoys going to concerts and the theatre. And if Prince isn’t to your musical taste, there’s also ‘Tribute to Bruce Springsteen’, ‘Tribute to the Greatest Soul Divas’ or ‘Tribute to The Beatles’. Incidentally, the theatre is wheelchair accessible and easily reached by public transport or by car. And in addition to the show, a two-course theatre menu is available to book from Wednesday to Sunday.