Artistic Director Extends Contract of the Royal Danish Opera

Elisabeth Linton will remain in the role until 2031

The Swedish director and dramaturg Elisabeth Linton, who was appointed as the Artistic Director of the Royal Danish Opera in 2022, has received a contract extension and will remain in the role until at least 2031.

A graduate of the Danish National School of Performing Arts, Linton has directed more than fifty productions of opera, musicals, and spoken-word theater, at institutions including Malmö Opera, Gothenburg Opera, Det Kongelige Teater, Finnish National Opera, and the Stadttheater Bern.

At the Danish National Opera, she directed Eugene Onegin, Tosca, Così fan tutte, Faust, and The Confession Box, which received the Reumert Award for Best Opera in 2007.

Her other productions include Tristan und Isolde at the Finnish National Opera, Don Giovanni at the Stadttheater Bern, Serse at Den Ny Opera, Orphée aux enfers at the Malmö Opera, Evita at the Aalborg Theatre, and Jesus Christ Superstar at the Aarhus Theatre.

From 2006 to 2014, Linton was a member of the board at the Danish National Opera, and since 2015 has sat on the advisory board for the Royal Danish Opera.

"Elisabeth’s exceptional leadership has brought both tradition and innovation to the Royal Danish Opera, consistently delivering high-quality performances that have resonated with audiences and critics," said Kasper Holten, the CEO of the Royal Danish Theatre. "I am confident that the Royal Danish Opera will continue to impress and move us under her guidance."

"Leading the Royal Danish Opera is both an inspiration and a responsibility, especially in a time when art seems more necessary than ever," Linton said. "I am excited to build upon the foundation we’ve laid with our dedicated artists and staff."

"The Royal Danish Opera is, and must remain, a leader in the Nordic opera landscape. I’m committed to delivering top-class performances that keep opera vibrant and relevant, and at the highest levels, building on the finest Danish and international talent. My passion lies in making opera accessible and meaningful to all and striving to offer the audience the very best. I am incredibly proud and grateful for the Board’s confidence."