Around 10,000 fans expected at the ball in front of the Semperoper

The Semper Opera Ball is once again expecting more than 10,000 guests this year. Admittedly, only a fraction of them will find room in the venerable opera house on the evening of February 6. But thousands of onlookers usually gather on Theaterplatz to watch the event on screen. They are also offered an extra program on a stage. The organizer has now announced the details in Dresden.

Ball in front of the opera as a meeting place for everyone

"The SemperOpenairball is much more than just a major cultural event. It is a symbol of openness, community and joie de vivre," said Dresden's Lord Mayor Dirk Hilbert, patron of the event. People of all generations, with different backgrounds and realities of life come together here. "The fact that we are once again opening Theaterplatz to everyone in 2026 underlines our ambition to make culture tangible and accessible - in the heart of the city and in the heart of life."

Opera Ball to increase Dresden's appeal at home and abroad

According to Hilbert, the ball in front of the Semperoper is also intended to send a strong signal to the outside world: "It attracts guests from outside and strengthens Dresden as a tourist destination - especially in winter, when cultural highlights are particularly important." The images from the Semperoper and Theaterplatz would extend the city's appeal far beyond Saxony and make people want to experience the city on the Elbe.

Donation campaign for children with cancer

The "SemperOpenairball" will be accompanied by a poster campaign and donation drive by the Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe. As part of a city bet, the people of Dresden and their guests are invited to come to Theaterplatz on the evening of the ball and create a connection to the debutantes in their cherry red ball gowns with a red accessory or item of clothing.

"The aim of the campaign is for at least 75 percent of visitors to wear something red," it said. If this target is achieved, the Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe will donate 7,500 euros to the children's oncology department at Dresden University Hospital. For every additional percent, the donation amount will increase by 100 euros - up to a maximum donation of 10,000 euros.

Spectacle on Theaterplatz is all about inclusion

This time, the open-air ball is all about inclusion. Up to 15 people in wheelchairs plus one accompanying person each will be able to take to the stage. Artistic highlights will include the piano duo "Queenz of Piano".

The motto of the ball at the opera is "Film ab!" and will be inspired by cinematic worlds. Presenter Annika Lau and dance judge Joachim Llambi will host the evening. Lau promised the audience in the hall and in front of the screens a "glamorous journey". Dick Brave was announced as the musical star guest. Behind this is the singer Sasha (54), when he performs with his rockabilly project.