Accusations of bullying against the boss of the traditional Viennese stage

A Study report on the working atmosphere at the Theater in der Josefstadt in Vienna makes serious allegations against the management of the traditional Austrian stage. Both that long-time director Herbert Föttinger as well as individual directors had been in samples “repeatedly invasive, derogatory and aggressive” behave towards employees.

The allegations could qualify as bullying if confirmed by a court, a law firm’s report said. The Investigation war von it Commissioned by theater committees after the newspaper “Der Standard” reported on grievances.

allegations von verbal sexual assaults and sexualized acts against Föttinger (63) were able to, according to the report not checked because there would have been a risk of violating the anonymity of those presumably affected. The Director has this Accusations denied.

No resignation

Regarding the alleged verbal attacks during rehearsals, he told the Austrian news agency APA: “That never happened in that form.” But he admitted: “In my excessive passion for the theater, I will have offended and hurt people.” He did not talk about a possible resignation before his contract ends in autumn 2026.

The theater’s board of trustees announced that it would place the current management under close observation for the remainder of the term. In addition, his power in personnel matters is curtailed. At his own request, Föttinger will no longer stage any plays in Josefstadt.