At the Hamburg ballet, the artistic director Demis Volpi accused of reigning « fear » – liberation

« A traumatic experience. » It is in these terms that more than half of the dancers of Hamburg Operain Germany, describe their collaboration with the artistic director Demis Volpi. In a letter revealed by Der Spiegel And addressed, in April, to the senator in charge of cultural affairs Carsten Brosda, they claim the resignation of the German-Argentinian choreographer.

The dancers of the Hamburg ballet denounce a « Deep distrust » that Volpi would maintain towards them and threaten to resign if no decision is made. Five of them have already folded luggage. Among the dancers, Alexandr Trusch, who tells the Spiegel born « Not to bear to have someone in a management position that destroys the future » of the institution.

The discomfort does not seem to be limited to this single institution. According to the German press, former members of the Ballett Am Rhein company of Düsseldorf, which Volpi has led for four years, supported these criticisms in a second letter addressed to the same senator. The mail quoted by The Guardian describes a working environment undermined by « An incoherent communication », « A lack of transparency » And « An atmosphere of fear and uncertainty ».

Faced with these criticisms, Demis Volpi defends itself, disputes the accusations in the columns of the Hamburger Abendblatt and affirms with Die Zeit Not having had access to the letter, while saying that you are ready to answer them. For his part, Senator Carsten Brosda, questioned by The Guardianensures taking these reports « Very seriously » and leadr « many discussions behind the scenes ».

Recognized choreographer, Demis Volpi came into office at the Hamburg ballet in August. Author of around thirty pieces presented internationally-in the United States, Chile, Canada …-he was also rewarded in 2011, the prestigious Erik Bruhn Prize, which distinguishes young dancers and choreographers every year.