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In Conversation with Alexander Neef: Reinventing Opera and Dance for tomorrow’s Europe
FEDORA Ambassadors Series
We had a conversation with Alexander Neef, General Director of the Paris National Opera, about the challenges and opportunities facing the performing arts world today. As a leader navigating one of Europe’s most historic cultural institutions, Alexander Neef offered an insightful perspective on how an institution can and should uphold tradition while embracing innovation.
In a rapidly shifting cultural and economic landscape, Mr. Neef emphasized the urgency of rethinking how opera and dance are created, funded, and shared. From fostering emerging talent to engaging with wider audiences, he underlined the need for institutions such as Opéra National de Paris to become more inclusive, more collaborative, and more attuned to contemporary undeniable realities.
He spoke about the role of co-productions in enabling ambitious projects, and how cross-border collaboration—especially within the European context—can help large-scale productions reach new, wider audiences. Our discussion also highlighted how technological tools, digital platforms, and hybrid formats can extend the reach of opera and dance beyond the traditional stage.
“There are no more national opera houses or national audiences—there is a global opera culture, and we need to find a way to work together to make that sustainable,”
Alexander Neef, General Director of the Paris National Opera
At the heart of Mr Neef’s vision stands a commitment to relevance: building a repertoire that reflects today’s society, investing in new voices, and ensuring that cultural heritage remains a living, evolving force. Neef’s words resonate strongly with FEDORA’s mission to support the next generation of opera and dance creators and curators, and to help shape a more connected, forward-thinking performing arts ecosystem in Europe.
Stay tuned for more insights from inspiring leaders shaping the future of the performing arts.
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