What is his role in Light of Creation?

He is the artistic visionary and founder behind the show, responsible for its concept, musical direction and narrative structure.

Is he still active as an opera singer?

Yes. Cenčić continues to perform internationally while also producing and directing artistic projects.

How does his operatic background influence the show?

The six-act structure, emotional pacing and emphasis on music reflect the storytelling techniques of opera.

Why is his involvement significant?

His international reputation and artistic leadership bring credibility and depth to Light of Creation, elevating it beyond a standard projection show into a curated cultural experience.

Max Emanuel Cenčić | Artist Behind Light of Creation Vienna

The immersive experience of Light of Creation inside the Votive Church is the result of a multidisciplinary collaboration between internationally acclaimed artists, musicians, and digital creatives. Max Emanuel Cenčić, internationally acclaimed countertenor and creative producer, is the visionary who shaped this experience.

His background in opera, combined with a passion for innovative staging, forms the foundation of a show that blends music, architecture and projection mapping into one cohesive narrative.

Max Emanuel Cenčić: The show's Artistic director & producer

Max Emanuel Cencic is an opera singer and internationally acclaimed countertenor who conceived the creative vision behind Light of Creation. His background in opera, combined with a passion for innovative staging, forms the foundation of a show that blends music, architecture, and projection mapping into one cohesive narrative. His approach focuses on emotional storytelling through music and visual transformation rather than spoken narration.

Under his direction, the show bridges classical artistic heritage with contemporary digital innovation.

Early life and musical foundation

A prodigy in classical music

Max Emanuel Cenčić began performing at a young age and quickly gained recognition for his exceptional vocal talent. His early exposure to classical repertoire laid the groundwork for a distinguished international career.

Specialization in Baroque repertoire

He became widely known for his mastery of Baroque opera, particularly works by Handel, Vivaldi and other 17th- and 18th-century composers. His performances are recognized for technical precision and expressive storytelling.

International career highlights

Performances across major opera houses

Cenčić has appeared on renowned stages throughout Europe and internationally. His collaborations with leading orchestras and conductors have solidified his reputation as one of the foremost countertenors of his generation.

Recording and production work

Beyond live performance, he has contributed to numerous recordings and productions that explore rare and historically significant works. His efforts have helped revive lesser-known operatic masterpieces.

Max Emanuel's artistic vision behind Light of Creation

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From opera stage to immersive experience

With Light of Creation, Cenčić expanded beyond traditional opera formats. Instead of singers and sets, he transformed architecture into the stage itself. The vaulted ceilings and arches of the Votive Church serve as projection surfaces, while music guides the narrative arc.

Six acts of visual storytelling

Inspired by the theme of creation, the show unfolds in six structured acts. This operatic framework reflects Cenčić’s deep understanding of dramatic pacing and emotional progression.

Respecting historic architecture

A central principle of the project was preserving the integrity of the Votive Church. The projections enhance the space temporarily, ensuring that the neo-Gothic landmark remains unchanged.

Max Emanuel's artistic philosophy

Balancing tradition and innovation

Cenčić’s work reflects a balance between reverence for classical tradition and openness to modern technology. Light of Creation demonstrates how sacred architecture and digital projection can coexist harmoniously.

Immersive storytelling

Rather than presenting a concert or conventional performance, the show surrounds the audience with light and sound. The vaulted ceilings and stone surfaces become active participants in the storytelling process.

Interdisciplinary teamwork

The project brought together composers, visual designers, and technical experts in projection mapping. Cenčić led the artistic direction, ensuring cohesion between music, imagery, and architectural scale.

Contribution to Vienna’s cultural landscape

Vienna has long been synonymous with classical music and opera. Through Light of Creation, Cenčić introduced a contemporary format that bridges tradition with innovation.
By staging the immersive show inside the Votive Church, he created a dialogue between centuries-old architecture and modern digital artistry.
This approach expands the city’s cultural offerings while maintaining a deep respect for its artistic heritage.