The opening of Elevate Festival 2023 will take place in the large theater hall of the Orpheum in Graz by the bestselling author Sibylle Berg (CH/DE). With her books, essays, columns and plays, she is one of the best-known contemporary writers and dramaturges in the German-speaking world.

The Belarusian Yegor Zabelov, one of the most innovative and original accordion players in Eastern Europe, will musically accompany the evening with his accordion retreats.

In addition to speeches by the Festival management, we are very pleased to welcome Mayor Elke Kahr, Vice Mayor Judith Schwentner and City Councilor Günter Riegler, who will address the guests with words of greeting.

Speaking of (Unlikely) Alliances: This year, the festival opening will be hosted by the unlikely performance-duo Marta Navaridas & Alex Deutinger. As Unlikely Aliens, they playfully guide the audience and guests through the evening. To be seen and heard on stage at Orpheum Graz: Manuel Riegler, Irina Nalis, Bernhard Steirer, Elke Kahr, Judith Schwentner, Günter Riegler, Sibylle Berg, Yegor Zabelov, Roland Oreški, and many more.

> DJ set with Katharina Oberegger & Philipp Strohmeier / Likely Alliance