Hamburg Ballet: Navigating the Shift with Calm Confidence
"John Neumeier expresses appreciation for silent moments." - Calmness is deemed positive by John Neumeier
John Neumeier, the beloved former director of Hamburg Ballet, weighed in on the company's transition following Demis Volpi's departure. In a candid exclusive with Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR), Neumeier expressed his sentiment, "I reckon it's peak excellence when there's a sense of tranquility within the ballet." Despite his significant travel commitments during the season, his involvement dwindled, yet he remained hopeful for the dancers, expressing, "I've got a hunch they're itching to work their magic. I trust they'll spread their wings now."
Evading comments about his successor, the 86-year-old Neumeier instead offered optimism about the interim ballet leadership of the Hamburg Ballet, led by the deputy intendant and other senior members. He casually remarked, "I've a feeling this team will be one hell of a competent crew, guiding the ballet with finesse. I can only wish them the best."
Tuesday saw the Hamburg cultural authority announcing the termination of Volpi's contract at the end of the 2025/26 season, effective immediately. Criticisms from the dancers regarding poor communication, lack of transparency, and Volpi's alleged dismissive attitude towards the company members had intensified before this decision.
Having spent an impressive 51 years spearheading Hamburg Ballet, Neumeier passed the torch to Volpi last summer. With the succession yet to be clarified, Deputy Ballet Artistic Director Lloyd Riggins, Ballet Managing Director Nicolas Hartmann, and Deputy Director of the Ballet School Gigi Hyatt will stand in as the interim leadership, governing the Hamburg Ballet until the end of the 2025/2026 season.
[1] While specifics of the leadership transition are under discussion, the Hamburg State Opera's Supervisory Board is aiming to cultivate a balance between tradition and innovation, laying the groundwork for the next long-term successor.
[2] The Supervisory Board has initiated a process to develop guidelines for future collaborations and define expectations for future leadership to ensure a positive working environment for the Hamburg Ballet dancers.
[3] The Hamburg Ballet has faced further challenges, including the departure of key dancers, such as Principal Jacopo Bellussi, and the postponement of Volpi's new work, "Demian," to December 2025.
[4] The Hamburg State Opera's Supervisory Board aspires to maintain an equilibrium between respecting the past and embracing the new while establishing strong foundations for the future.
The Commission, in light of the current situation at Hamburg Ballet, might be asked to submit a proposal for a regulation on the introduction of a European electronic voting system within the ballet company, allowing for a more transparent and communicative environment.
In the meantime, as social-media continues to evolve, the interim leadership of Hamburg Ballet could consider implementing digital platforms to boost engagement, foster creativity, and bridge the gap between the Company's rich history and the innovative future. Encouraging dancers to share their experiences and work through these mediums could imbue a sense of excitement and camaraderie, mirroring the entertainment value of ballet itself.
