Seattle Opera's next General and Artistic Director

James robinson

James Robinson is the next General and Artistic Director of Seattle Opera, and the fifth person to lead the company in its 61-year history. Robinson begins his tenure on September 4, 2024, replacing Christina Scheppelmann, who takes over as General and Artistic Director of Brussels’ La Monnaie/De Munt in January 2025 following the completion of her contract with Seattle Opera.

Robinson comes to Seattle from Opera Theatre of Saint Louis (OTSL), where he has served as Artistic Director since 2008. During his tenure, Robinson transformed OTSL into one of the country’s most forward-looking opera festivals, commissioning 11 world premieres and presenting imaginative new productions of core repertoire. As a stage director, Robinson has developed a rich portfolio, having directed at least 75 new productions at the world’s top theaters and over 30 world premieres.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be joining the tremendous staff and board at Seattle Opera,” said Robinson. “Seattle is an opera town. It has opera in its DNA, and I am honored to be able to build on that rich tradition. I can’t wait to get to work creating art with and for the passionate audiences that have made Seattle Opera into the company it is today.”

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Q&A Interview with James

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I have my opera career due to James Robinson. Jim saw something in me that I didn’t see in myself. His capacity to make connections that others can’t see has allowed him to create new and exciting work. Having him as the new General and Artistic Director at the Seattle Opera is nothing short of a coup.”

– Terence Blanchard, composer of Fire Shut Up in My Bones and Champion

Jim has supported and collaborated with so many living American composers and librettists and is one of the artistic leaders who has most improved the new American opera landscape. Jim’s deep understanding of the challenges of creating new opera allows him to bring out the best of every new work. I look forward to seeing the artistic vision Jim will bring to Seattle Opera.”

– Huang Ruo, Composer of An American Soldier and M. Butterfly

James has an impressive track record as a stage director and his extensive network will present tremendous opportunities for collaboration. I am sure he will accomplish great things at Seattle Opera, together with this amazing staff and supportive board. Seattle Opera is in good hands.”

– Christina Scheppelmann, Current General Director, Seattle Opera

Jim Robinson is one of our greatest visionaries—as a director, a commissioner of new work, and a producer.”

– Timothy O’Leary, General Director, Washington National Opera

Main Photo © Lara Swimmer | James Robinson Photo © David Jaewon Oh