Nikolomuseum Tauplitz

Tauplitz

This exhibition showcases one of the last remaining and maintained folk plays in the Alpine region: the Nikolaus Play.

Approximately 90 wooden masks and (over-)life-sized figures, including the up to six-meter-high straw figures, are lovingly arranged and displayed in the Thomahof inn. The masks are special rarities. Each one has been crafted by local carvers with meticulous handwork. No two are alike; each is a unique piece.

Visitors can also tour the workshop where new masks and props are continuously being carved and created.

Visits to see the figures and masks of the Nikolospiel players are possible throughout the year (by appointment). There are 90 wooden masks to see, all carved by local carvers, and life sized figures in costume to be admired up close. Tours are led by the folk play director Roman Gruber.

Excerpt from the Tauplitzer Nikolospiel:
Every year on 05th December, the silence of the Tauplitz winter night is broken by the sound of jingle bells and crack of "Goassln" (whips) as dark shapes move through the darkness. It is St. Nicholas' Day: or “Miglotog” as it is called in the small mountain village.

Every year the Bishop St. Nicholas marches his entourage of light and dark from Klachau to the village square, where the traditional Niokolospiel is performed.

About 60 masked players take part in this drama.
The Krampus masks have human facial features that have been lovingly crafted by local carvers.
The performance takes place in local Stuben (bars) and in the procession.
The Tauplitzer plays' texts are some of the oldest in the country.
Men of straw ("die Schab") lead the procession and announce their presence with the loud crack of whips.
St. Nicholas is an impressive sight as he rides to the waiting children in Tauplitz on his horse (Nikoloroß).
The "Jedermannszene" (any man scene) in the Tauplitzer Nikolospiel is a must see presentation. It tells the story of a ragged alcoholic who asks the priest to take his confession.