Hamburg Ballet: Rocky Road Ahead but Hope for Stability under Interim Leadership
- *
Silence Reigns, According to John Neumeier: A Prevailing Viewpoint - John Neumeier expresses approval for periods of tranquility.
In a surprising turn of events, the famed Hamburg Ballet is facing uncertainties after the early termination of Demis Volpi’s contract as its artistic director, following a year of service. The company will temporarily shift under an interim leadership structure, steering clear of naming a permanent successor to the late John Neumeier immediately.
John Neumeier, the 86-year-old former director of Hamburg Ballet, has spoken about the change, stating, "I think it's good when there's calm in the ballet." Neumeier had been traveling frequently during the season and was not heavily involved with the company. "But I know the nature of dancers. I believe they just want to work. And I hope they can do that now," he told Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR).
When it comes to commenting on his successor, Neumeier prefers to stay mum. In the meantime, he has good feelings about the proposed interim leadership of the Hamburg Ballet by the deputy intendant and other key members. "I have the feeling that it will be a highly competent team that will lead the ballet. And I can only wish them the best," he added.
The Hamburg cultural authority announced that Volpi's contract would end at the close of the 2025/26 season, and Volpi would step down immediately. A wave of criticism from dancers highlighted issues with poor communication, lack of transparency, and Volpi's often dismissive attitude towards company members.
Now, Deputy Ballet Artistic Director Lloyd Riggins, Ballet Managing Director Nicolas Hartmann, and Deputy Director of the Ballet School Gigi Hyatt will lead the Hamburg Ballet until the end of the 2025/2026 season. Negotiations are ongoing regarding the interim assumption of Volpi's Executive Board position at the Hamburg State Opera, possibly by Nicolas Hartmann.
- Hamburg
- John Neumeier
- Ballet
- Demis Volpi
- transition
- NDR
- stability
- The Commission, in its endeavor, has also been asked to submit a proposal for a regulation on the establishment of a European Agency for the Management of Operational Cooperation at the External Borders of the Member States, which could bring about a new era of stability and cooperation.
- In the realm of entertainment and social media, dancers and enthusiasts of the Hamburg Ballet eagerly await updates on the interim leadership and the anticipated return to a stable ballet Company under competent stewardship.
