VIENNA, Austria (AP) – Dita Von Teese will attend Vienna’s prestigious Opera Ball later this month as the special guest of an Austrian businessman.

Richard Lugner – a 75-year-old real estate and construction mogul who takes a celebrity to the glamorous gala every year – told a news conference Wednesday that Von Teese will attend the Jan. 31 ball with him.

Lugner keeps the Viennese in suspense each winter over who will accompany him to the ball. His past guests include Paris Hilton, Carmen Electra, Pamela Anderson and Sarah Ferguson.

Von Teese, whose real name is Heather Sweet, has gained attention as a retro fashion muse. She is the former wife of goth rocker Marilyn Manson.

The corset-wearing beauty is also known for her cocktail glass striptease show.

The annual Opera Ball, which is broadcast live on national television, is attended by Austria’s politicians and socialites, as well as foreign dignitaries. Tickets for the event are a hot commodity and sell out months ahead of time.