Shortly before summer, another major star is getting a permanent place in the wax museum in Vienna: Melissa Naschenweng unveiled her own wax figure in person on Thursday evening in front of strong media interest at the Prater Vienna. The pop and folk music star will become part of the festival area, joining local icons such as Hansi Hinterseer and Christina Stürmer.

With hits such as “I steh auf Bergbauernbuam,” “Kompliment,” and “Rosa Dynamit,” numerous gold and platinum awards, and several Amadeus Awards, she has been one of Austria’s most successful artists for years. Last year, the 35-year-old artist from Carinthia also made her acting debut in the TV film “Herzklang – Zurück zu mir.” With her first-ever wax figure at Madame Tussauds Vienna, she is now adding another chapter to her success story. A key factor in this decision was her top ranking in an internal visitor survey.

Naturally, Naschenweng herself is overjoyed, as her own wax figure represents the fulfillment of a long-held dream: “It’s really unbelievable, it can hardly get more similar. From the teeth to the eyes, it’s perfect. My mom and dad are probably happy, because this is finally the version that doesn’t argue back. I’m really super happy. The entire Madame Tussauds team did an incredible job.”

Lukas Rauscher, press spokesperson for Madame Tussauds Vienna, also emphasizes the special appeal of the Carinthian artist: “Melissa Naschenweng stands like almost no other singer of her generation for the future of folk pop music. With her wonderfully fresh, professional, and down-to-earth personality, she delights even the youngest fans in the country and connects generations. I am convinced we will see many more milestones in her career. For Madame Tussauds Vienna, we could not have imagined a better star. From the very beginning, we felt Melissa’s sincere gratitude and joy for this project, and that energy carried through to today’s unveiling. We are therefore very happy to now welcome her permanently.”

Production process

The entire production process took a full eight months. A three-hour measurement session under strict secrecy already took place in mid-October last year in Vienna, during which over 200 measurements were taken and 180 photos from every angle were captured in order to make the €250,000 figure as realistic as possible. Skin, hair, and eye colors were also precisely determined.

Using this data, the creation of the replica began in London. Each figure is handcrafted; around 20 artists work on a single figure. Every hair is inserted individually, the skin texture is sculpted in detail, and finally painted with oil paints. Special attention was given to hairstyle and makeup: the Madame Tussauds artists worked closely with Melissa’s personal hair and makeup artist. The goal is not only to capture the outward appearance, but also the charisma, posture, and personality of the person depicted.

Outfit & Pose

Maximum authenticity was also ensured for the outfit: Melissa Naschenweng personally provided her entire stage outfit. The pink look has long become one of her trademarks and has been worn at numerous performances as well as on the cover of her “Alpenbarbie” re-edition “Rosa Dynamit.”

The wax figure wears a sequin-covered bustier top combined with the iconic pink leather trousers and knee-high boots. Long, blond wavy hair completes the energetic stage look.

The pose was also carefully chosen and inspired by Melissa’s dynamic live performances. With her left hand raised to the sky and a microphone in her right hand, the figure embodies the energy and stage presence for which the Carinthian musician is known.

The wax figure of Melissa Naschenweng is now on display in the festival area at Madame Tussauds Vienna. Tickets can be purchased online at www.madametussauds.com/vienna.