Overview
- Theiler begins an advisory role in April 2026 to prepare the transition and guide the search for a permanent Intendant.
- He will lead the Aalto-Musiktheater and the Essener Philharmoniker on an interim basis for the 2027/28 season.
- Current chief Merle Fahrholz leaves after the 2026/27 season, having previously said she would not pursue an extension.
- Average occupancy was about 63% in 2024/25, highlighting the audience challenge the transition is intended to address.
- Theiler says he will combine in-house productions with successful repertory transfers and recruit marquee names to draw attention.