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“THE MATTERHORN STORY”

“THE MATTERHORN STORY” returns to Riffelberg

Ten years after its world premiere, the touching story by Livia Anne Richard returns to Riffelberg this summer in a brand-new production.

At this unique open-air theatre venue, located at 2,582 metres above sea level, Richard—together with co-director Lilian Naef from Bern—tells the tale of seven men who set out on 13 July 1865 to conquer the “Hore” for the very first time. With their daring undertaking, they would forever change the history of Zermatt...

The new production brings fresh characters and a brilliant musical concept by the Zermatt band Wintershome and young pianist Elia Gasser from Bern, who will improvise live on stage every evening.

A total of 29 performers bring the story to life. Most of them are from Zermatt or the Upper Valais region. More than half have already performed in at least one of the previous three “obena” productions by Richard. The most well-known face on stage is Valaisan actor Dani Mangisch, who will play a double role as Reverend Charles Hudson and mountain guide Elmar.

“THE MATTERHORN STORY” will premiere on Friday, 27 June 2025, followed by 31 performances until 23 August. The grandstand seats 448 guests and offers an intimate theatre experience with close proximity to the action.

More information: freilichtspielezermatt.ch/tickets