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Vienna learned long ago that a thriving arts scene is a boon to tourism, so it lends its support to everything from grand opera to intimate cabaret performances. As a result, artists from around the world have also settled in the city. That’s why in addition to waltzes you can enjoy such varied fare as Greek rembetiko and Turkish Sufi music. Anyone who knows a bit of German should attend a performance at such major theaters as the Burgtheater and the Theater in der Josefstadt. Ever since Tanzquartier took up residence in the MuseumsQuartier, aficionados of contemporary dance have been able to enjoy avant-garde performances.
A former bread factory once slated for demolition is now the site of Vienna's most celebrated contemporary art venue. Ateliers, galleries, showrooms, and studios for artists-in-residence are set up inside, making it akin to an urban artists' colony. It showcases some of the country's premier artists, as well as many up-and-comers.
