ALL GENRE: 7^TH May, 2025

Statement on the Passing of Director Pierre Audi

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of stage director Pierre Audi, and we extend our heartfelt condolences.

Since presenting the world premiere of his ambitious production of Simon Boccanegra--a co-production by the New National Theatre Tokyo, the Finnish National Opera, and Teatro Real--at our theatre in 2023, we have received the deeply saddening and sudden news of his untimely passing. Mr. Audi passed away on May 3.

A French-Lebanese director, Pierre Audi studied in London and founded the Almeida Theatre in 1979. He went on to serve as Artistic Director of Dutch National Opera for 30 years beginning in 1989, and at the time of his passing, he was Festival Director of the Aix-en-Provence Festival and Artistic Director of the Park Avenue Armory in New York.

Mr. Audi's innovative productions and bold collaborations with artists across disciplines were widely acclaimed. His striking staging of Simon Boccanegra, created in collaboration with contemporary visual artist Anish Kapoor, drew significant attention both in Japan and internationally.

We pay tribute to Mr. Audi's remarkable contributions to the world of opera and express our deepest sympathy.
May he rest in peace.

We are at a loss for words upon hearing the sudden and untimely passing of Pierre Audi.

In Simon Boccanegra, presented two years ago, he brought to life a truly beautiful production that captured the emotional nuances and shadows within each character. I still vividly remember sharing a traditional Japanese meal with him at that time, during which we spoke passionately about many future productions.

A man of profound cultural depth and intellectual curiosity, deeply rooted in multiple cultures, Mr. Audi was deeply moved by his experience in Japan and expressed strong enthusiasm about returning to the New National Theatre for future projects. We extend our heartfelt condolences.
May he rest in peace.

Kazushi Ono