The anniversary event includes performances, readings and various scenes that were studied in daily lessons. A party will follow.

Led for 20 years by owner and director Michaela Krauss, the Schauspielschule Krauss is an internationally recognized drama school in the heart of Vienna, Austria. It was founded in 1948 by her grandfather Helmuth Krauss, an actor from the city's famous Burgtheater, "as an unbureaucratic, idealistic alternative to the state University for Music and Performing Arts." The Schauspielschule Krauss has been run on these principles ever since.

"The acting school is the only continuously operated, state-recognized private acting school in Austria," stated Michaela Krauss. "Sixty years ago, my grandfather started in this very place offering evening acting courses; for the last 20 years, I have grown this into a full-day, three-year program."

Among its most famous students of the first generation were Oskar Werner and Karl-Heinz Böhm, who both became stars. Many successful careers of actors were established throughout the decades, including newcomer Manuel Rubey, who played the leading role in the 2008 film "Falco."

Krauss added, "In its basic precepts, the school's curriculum follows the methods dictated by Stanislavski, as expressed in ideas by teachers such as Meisner, Spolin, Johnston, or Linklater. The decisive accent in these methods is placed on analysis, through which the windows to discovering and deepening an actor's insight into his own character and that of the role in hand may be opened. The objective of the school is to develop in its students the ability to think and work independently, enabling them to swiftly adapt to the constantly changing demands of the profession. The three-year course ends with an examination that will furnish the graduate with a state-approved diploma for theatre, film, and television." In addition to its classes and performances, the school offers to students and ex-students "networking, mentoring and contacts" throughout the cultural field in the German-speaking area.

"I am so proud to be part of this school started by my grandfather," continued Michaela Krauss. "Every day I watch with pride as these students become better and better at their craft. Everyone here knows that the art is the thing at our school, and I am proud of each and every student who has ever studied here. As with every cultural institution, and school focused on the arts, our students are dedicated to their craft. One doesn't chose a life in the arts, it chooses you."

To learn more about the Schauspielschule Krauss visit www.schauspielschulekrauss.at.