Emanuel Schikaneder
Emanuel Schikaneder had a 43-year career as a Holy Roman Empire Composer before passing in 1812.
German actor and singer
"His most defining career moment was undoubtedly the creation and premiere of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's opera *The Magic Flute*." — About Emanuel Schikaneder
| Metric | Emanuel Schikaneder | Avg Composer | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 61 | 60 | +1 yrs |
| Career length | 43 yrs | ~35 yrs | +8 yrs |
| Based on 156 Composer profiles in our database | |||
See also
Facts about Emanuel Schikaneder
Did you know that Schikaneder's theatrical company was so successful that he was able to commission Mozart to compose *The Magic Flute* for his theatre?
- He originally performed the role of Papageno in Mozart's *The Magic Flute*, which he also wrote the libretto for.
- Schikaneder managed his own traveling theatrical troupe for many years before settling in Vienna.
- He built and managed the famous Theater an der Wien, which opened in 1801 and is still active today.
- Despite his theatrical successes, he frequently faced severe financial difficulties and declared bankruptcy multiple times.
- His full birth name was Johann Joseph Schikaneder; he adopted "Emanuel" later in his career.
His most defining career moment was undoubtedly the creation and premiere of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's opera *The Magic Flute*. Schikaneder not only wrote the libretto but also performed the iconic role of Papageno, making it a monumental success for his theatre and securing his place in operatic history.
Schikaneder's lasting impact is primarily as the librettist and original performer for *The Magic Flute*, a work that remains one of the most beloved and performed operas worldwide. He also significantly shaped Viennese popular theatre, blending spectacle, comedy, and music.