Opera Australia’s newly appointed Music Director, Andrea Battistoni, tells Jo Litson why he was keen to take on the role and discusses the challenges ahead.

Andrea Battistoni stands outside, the Sydney Harbour Bridge in view.
Opera Australia's new Music Director Andrea Battistoni. Photo © Keith Saunders

Taking on a leadership role at Opera Australia right now could be seen as a poisoned chalice; certainly a challenge.

When the company released its 2024 Annual Report in May this year – which revealed a $10.1 million deficit – it announced that it would be restructuring its senior management team, replacing the role of Artistic Director with a Music Director and a Director of Opera. The duo will work alongside the new CEO.

In August – a year after former AD Jo Davies’...