Semperoper Kicks Off New Season with Record Attendance

The Semperoper in Dresden is kicking off the new season with strong numbers and aims to remain a socially relevant institution. “It doesn’t help to just hang a banner on the theater,” said Artistic Director Nora Schmid in her season preview. “For us, it’s always about the content. I believe our program speaks clearly about our stance.” With its ensemble, the Semperoper could serve as a model for Saxony in terms of internationalism and diversity, the artistic director emphasized. In the ballet alone, 30 nations are represented.

10 premieres and two dozen works in the repertoire

The Saxon State Opera in Dresden has announced ten premieres for the new season. In addition, there are about two dozen works in the repertoire. Through the summer of 2027, the opera house aims to take audiences on a journey of discovery into the world of music and dance. Under the guiding principle “Imagine you’re part of the show,” the opera house invites audiences to question their perspectives and expectations and to experience the power of great music and moving stories together. The first premiere, Giuseppe Verdi’s “Un ballo in maschera,” will take the stage in October.

Higher ticket revenues help offset budget cuts

Last season, the Semperoper’s attendance rate rose to 97 percent. Approximately 300,000 audience members attended the opera and ballet performances as well as the concerts by the Saxon State Orchestra, about 10,000 more guests than in the previous season. The additional revenue from ticket sales is now helping to offset budget cuts in the new two-year budget. However, Nora Schmid and Commercial Director Wolfgang Rothe made it clear that it cannot be taken for granted that such high attendance rates will always be achieved.