Dirk Elwert to depart Oper Graz ballet directorate in 2028

Ballet Director Dirk Elwert will depart Oper Graz at the end of the 2027/28 season, officially leaving in August 2028. His decision follows the previous announcement that Intendant Ulrich Lenz will also conclude his tenure at the end of that same season.

Elwert, who took leadership of Ballett Graz in the 2023/24 season, stated that his departure is a personal consequence of the upcoming change in artistic leadership. He noted that the trust and creative freedom provided by Lenz were significant factors in his tenure.

Until his departure, Elwert will continue to lead the ballet company and fulfill planned projects and productions, including ‘Romeo and Juliet’, ‘Icarus’, and the revival of ‘Follia!’. The leadership transition at the opera house will see Marlene Hahn succeed Ulrich Lenz for the 2028/29 season.