Karin Bergmann Named Interim Director of Salzburg Festival 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.
The Salzburger Festspiele, founded in 1920, is a cornerstone of Austria's cultural calendar, attracting international audiences and top-tier performers. The festival's leadership transitions are closely watched, given its significance to both the city of Salzburg and the broader arts community. Bergmann's interim appointment signals a period of stability as the organization seeks a long-term artistic director.
## Next Steps and Press Conference The upcoming press conference is expected to provide further details on the search for Hinterhäuser's permanent replacement and the festival's artistic direction under Bergmann's interim leadership. The simultaneous advertisement for the artistic director and president roles suggests a comprehensive restructuring of the festival's leadership framework.
Bergmann, who has been part of the festival's management team, brings experience that may help navigate the transition. Her interim role will likely focus on maintaining continuity while the Kuratorium evaluates candidates for the permanent positions. The festival's statement emphasized a commitment to upholding its artistic standards during the leadership change.
The Salzburger Festspiele's new management team faces the dual challenge of stabilizing the organization and preparing for a future under new artistic leadership. With the press conference scheduled for Wednesday, stakeholders will be watching for signals about the festival's direction in the coming years.