Austro-Pinoy Vincent Bueno Shines in New Musical at Metropol

Vienna- Vincent Bueno, a prominent Austro-Filipino artist, captivated audiences with his latest

performance in the exciting new musical “Bring Me Edelweiss—The Musical of the 80s,” which

premiered at the Metropol in Vienna on 12 February. Taking on the role of Jojo, a Filipino

character who embodies the spirit of the Viennese culture, Bueno’s participation in this

production is a testament to his versatile talent and ability to bridge cultures through art.

Embracing the Character

Playing Jojo’s role requires more than acting; it necessitates a deep understanding and

integration of Viennese culture. Bueno expressed his challenges, stating, “I had to learn a lot of

sayings and the typical Viennese accent. I grew up with it in Vienna, but it’s still something

different because, as a child with a migrant background, you still can’t speak it like that,” he said.

This statement sheds light on the unique perspective Bueno brings to his character, emphasizing

the nuances of identity that often accompany immigrant experiences.

Musical Background

“Bring Me Edelweiss” is a vibrant homage to the 1980s, immersing viewers in an era

characterized by flashy outfits, iconic music, and a distinctive lifestyle. Under the direction of

Peter Hofbauer and along with Austrian author Markus Gull, this musical blends humour with a

nostalgic look back at a transformative decade in music and fashion.

Elements of the Musical

1. Flashy Outfits: The musical’s visual aspects are designed to transport the audience back to

the 1980s, evident through the colorful costumes and retro aesthetics.

2. Iconic Sounds: The score features hits from the Austropop and Neue Deutsche Welle genres,

drawing audiences into the era’s sound.

3. Storyline: Central to the plot are a Viennese comedy duo and two singers from Munich who

aspire to conquer the music charts. Thus, personal ambition is intertwined with comedic twists.

The Journey of Discovery

Bueno’s journey into the world of Austropop and Neue Deutsche Welle is particularly noteworthy.

He admits, “As a Filipino Austrian, I didn’t really come into contact with Austropop and Neue

Deutsche Welle as a child, but rather with American music. That’s why it was a change for me

now to find a sound where the voice doesn’t sound too perfect; you don’t have to sing Austropop

in an aesthetically beautiful way, but rather feel it,” he said. This reflection highlights the artist’s

adaptability and growth as he embraces new musical influences.

An Invitation to Audience

Vincent eagerly inspires audiences with his compelling portrayal in “Bring Me Edelweiss.” He

invites all to experience this lively musical adventure, exuding enthusiasm and confidence in

what he describes as a “feel-good” production that promises to entertain and resonate with

viewers from various backgrounds.

Vincent Bueno’s role in “Bring Me Edelweiss—The Musical of the 80s” at the Metropol

underscores the power of art to bridge cultural divides. Through his journey of learning and self-

discovery, he embodies the evolving identity of a multicultural artist.

The musical serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of experiences that shape individual

narratives and the shared cultural landscape.

The musical had a limited run until 22 March 2025.

Photo Source: krone.at | picture: canva./hpascua