Scottish Ballet - The Scandal at Mayerling

Scottish Ballet - The Scandal at Mayerling tickets in Glasgow

Scottish Ballet brings The Scandal at Mayerling to Theatre Royal Glasgow, placing Crown Prince Rudolf's psychological collapse at the centre of Sir Kenneth MacMillan's visceral choreography. This two-act adaptation is set in 1889 Vienna, with Franz Liszt's score performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra.

The story and its adaptation

The production follows Crown Prince Rudolf as dynastic duty, isolation and addiction drive him towards crisis. When the young Mary Vetsera enters his turbulent world, their connection accelerates a descent towards the tragedy at the Mayerling hunting lodge, an event the Habsburg monarchy worked to conceal. Rudolf's psychological state is treated as the lens through which the whole drama unfolds.

Adapted for Scottish Ballet by Christopher Hampson CBE and Garry Harris, and developed in association with Lady Deborah MacMillan, the work is staged and directed by Garry Harris. The original scenario was written by Gillian Freeman. The women surrounding Rudolf, mother, wife, mistress and Mary herself, are each presented as a distinct force navigating her own constraints.

Design, music and creative team

Elin Steele's set and costume designs hold imperial opulence and a sense of unease together, reflecting Rudolf's deterioration. Paul Pyant leads the lighting design, with co-design by David Howe and video design by Hayley Egan.

Franz Liszt's Romantic score is performed live by the Scottish Ballet Orchestra, with Martin Yates serving as Principal Guest Conductor and also responsible for the orchestration. MacMillan's choreography makes demanding physical and emotional requirements of the dancers.

Dates, venues and booking links

These are the dates listed by ATG as checked on 21 September 2026. A date range may contain selected performances, rather than a show every day. Open your chosen venue link for exact times, seats and current prices.

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