That's why Haider's Zaza remains a unique adventure

Alfons Haider made his stage debut in Mörbisch during the premiere of Ein Käfig voller Narren on Thursday, July 16, 2026, under ideal weather conditions. The performance took place at the Seefestspiele Mörbisch, transforming the venue into a French nightclub for the evening. Haider portrayed the character Zaza, a role he had previously performed in Stockerau over 18 years earlier. His portrayal lasted one and a half to two hours, with the duration depending on the temperature and how quickly the cast moved through scenes. The event featured several notable attendees, including Daniel Serafin with his mother Ingeborg, Christa Kummer with her husband Franz Hofbauer, Alfons Haider with Lucas Fendrich, Trixi Schuba with former State Governor Hermann Schützenhöfer, Petra and Herbert Steinböck, Hans Mahr with Norbert Blecha, singer Waterloo with his wife Andrea and football legend Toni Polster, parish priest Toni Faber with companion Natalie Nemec, musical star Drew Sarich, who also played Zaza, Simone Lugner with new hair color and Christopher Dengg. Haider emphasized that this would be a unique experience, as he was performing on stage himself for the first time in Mörbisch. He noted that the production included a triple role due to his position as co-intendant of both Mörbisch and Schloss Tabor. “All good things come in threes,” he remarked, adding that the success of the show was due to his exceptional team and his long-held dream of appearing on stage. Haider credited the role itself and director Andreas Gergen for his decision to take part. He explained that he had initially hesitated but was encouraged by Gergen’s approval. “He asked me if I thought it was a good idea, and he said yes, I should definitely do it,” Haider recalled. He also paid tribute to the late Harald Serafin, a longtime intendant of Mörbisch, whose absence was felt among the guests. “Harald Serafin was always deeply connected to Mörbisch,” Haider said. “Today, his widow Ingeborg is here, and I’m especially happy to welcome her.” On the night of the premiere, Drew Sarich, who would take on the role of Zaza on Friday, expressed gratitude for being invited to participate. “I rarely get to enjoy a premiere so much,” he laughed. “We’ve got such a great group of people here. I’m just thankful that Alfons invited me.” Toni Polster, another guest, shared his fondness for Mörbisch, citing his love for the Burgenland region and his proximity to the area. “When Hans Peter Doskozil and Alfons Haider call, you have to come,” he said. Polster also mentioned having watched a film featuring Michel Serrault and Ugo Tognazzi, which he described as excellent.