Austrian culture at the Austrian Centre
'Austrian culture will survive this war. But it has to be looked after' (9)
The disappearance of Austria from the map of Europe in March 1938 and the consequent loss of national identity had a profound impact on Austrian refugees in the UK. In the absence of an Austrian government-in-exile the Centre was intent on preserving the best of Austrian culture for a new post-war Austria.
The cultural and educational activities were numerous: cabaret and theatre, music, lectures, and libraries of Austrian literature. Some people living outside London were even supplied with books by post.
Besides the Laterndl, one of the Centre's biggest successes was the extensive music programme. Austria had always been well known for its composers and music transcends language. In the seven years of its existence the Centre organised hundreds of concerts with many famous musicians, as well as many more informal 'Liederabende' (Evenings of songs) featuring popular Austrian songs.
Most importantly, the Austrian Centre provided a space for refugees to feel at home, to be amongst other Austrians, speak their own language and to eat familiar food.