Staatstheater Mainz named Opera House of the Year

The Staatstheater Mainz has been named ‘Opernhaus des Jahres’ (Opera House of the Year) following a survey of 40 international critics conducted by the specialist magazine ‘Opernwelt’. Under the leadership of Markus Müller, the Rhineland-Palatinate institution was praised for its ‘dramaturgically compelling, courageous and politically aware repertoire’ and impressive directorial styles.

Other major winners in the annual awards include Claus Guth, named Director of the Year for his work at the Zurich Opera House and the Bayerische Staatsoper. The opera ‘Of One Blood’ by Brett Dean was honored as Premiere of the Year. In the vocal categories, Michael Spyres was named Singer of the Year, while Elena Stikhina received the award for Singer of the Year. Thomas Guggeis, General Music Director at Oper Frankfurt, was recognized as Conductor of the Year, with his orchestra also receiving honors.