Opera Australia has announced the departure of its Artistic Director Jo Davies.

The British director was appointed to the role just 18 months ago, replacing the long-serving Lyndon Terracini in the leadership position and after Creative Director Lindy Hume programmed the company’s 2024 successful Sydney Summer season.

A statement released by OA this morning, 30 August, said that Davies “will step down from her position as at the end of August” – in effect, immediately. OA staff were informed of the decision just before the announcement was made.

“The agreed decision follows differences of opinion about how Opera Australia should successfully balance artistic innovation, audience development and commercial imperatives moving forward,” the statement read.

Jo Davies

Jo Davies. Photo © Daniel Boud

OA Board of Directors Chair Rod Sims thanked Davies for “upholding OA’s new strategic ambition as evidenced through her 2024 and 2025 programming”.

“I thank Jo for her significant contribution to the artistic future of Opera Australia. The Sydney Winter productions including Tosca, Watershed, Il Trittico and Hamlet were all highly acclaimed.”

“Jo’s engagement of three young directors for the three short operas that comprise Il Trittico was a brilliant idea and demonstrated huge commitment to...