Salzburg, April 7, 2026
Karin Bergmann has been appointed interim Intendantin of the Salzburger Festspiele following the departure of Markus Hinterhäuser, the festival announced Monday.
Leadership Transition
Bergmann steps into the role after Hinterhäuser was placed on leave due to what the festival described as "irreconcilable differences." The separation was finalized on March 26, marking an abrupt end to Hinterhäuser's tenure, which had been extended until autumn 2031. The Kuratorium, the festival's governing body, had previously offered Hinterhäuser a one-year extension to facilitate a smooth transition, but the parties ultimately parted ways.
Bergmann will serve as interim director until a permanent successor is appointed, a process expected to conclude by autumn 2027. Her appointment comes as the festival prepares to advertise vacancies for both the künstlerische Intendanz (artistic direction) and the presidency in the coming weeks. The management team, which includes Bergmann, Kristina Hammer, and Lukas Crepaz, will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 11 a.m. to address the transition.
Background and Context
Hinterhäuser's suspension will remain in effect until the end of his contract on September 30, 2026. His original contract extension, which would have kept him at the helm until 2031, was seen as a vote of confidence in his leadership. However, the recent rift underscores the challenges facing one of the world's most prestigious classical music and theater festivals.