Theater Director Julien Chavaz to Leave Magdeburg in Summer 2028
Magdeburg Theater's General Director Julien Chavaz will move to the Aalto Theater in Essen starting summer 2028. His contract had recently been extended until 2032.
Julien Chavaz, General Director of Theater Magdeburg, is set to depart his role in Saxony-Anhalt to take on a new position in Essen. He will become the new opera director at the Aalto Theater and chief of the Essener Philharmoniker starting in the summer of 2028.
Chavaz has served as the General Director of Theater Magdeburg since the 2022/23 season. His contract was extended just last year, running until 2032.
Despite his departure, Chavaz stated his commitment to his remaining time in Magdeburg. "I have courage and energy for these next two years to fight so that this theater can continue to perform freely," Chavaz told MDR KULTUR. He cited the Essen theater's significant tradition and successful artists as an opportunity.
Chavaz's move follows the earlier announcement that the current leadership team for Magdeburg's drama department will leave to head the Schauspiel Leipzig beginning the 2027/28 season. Chavaz noted that these transitions are staggered, with his own move occurring in 2028, allowing for overlap and a gradual handover.