In Balance

Alexander Neef, you have been the director of the Opéra national de Paris since 2020. What is your relationship with France's capital?
The city also has its downsides, such as the constant social conflicts, the relative density ... I was able to choose whether to come or not; you're not forced to. I really, really like it here; I really like the city, and also our two theaters, the Bastille and the Garnier. The most beautiful thing about Paris is that it's almost a secret city, with its courtyards hidden behind facades. You enter somewhere and suddenly there's space, gardens, and greenery. These discoveries interest me the most. From my office on the eighth floor of the Bastille Opera, you also have a great view of the city. At least that way you can see it, even if you don't get out very ...